Oxhamns School in Pietarsaari has undergone an impressive transformation and is now a stately building that catches the eye along Storgatan. With its rounded windows and impressive entrance, the school has become a recognized landmark in the city. Stepping into the school’s auditorium is an experience in itself, with its high ceilings and harmonious colour scheme spreading a sense of calm and well-being. Students thrive here.
The need for renewal was evident as the redevelopment survey showed that the old buildings could no longer be adequately preserved. A new school was necessary, and with an extension of 4681 square meters, together with the preservation of some parts of the original structure, the total area of the school has now increased to 6153 square meters.
The project was a major challenge for Ingenjörsbyrå Kronqvist, requiring collaboration and expertise from many quarters to realise the architect’s vision. Julia Lindell, a design engineer at Ingenjörsbyrån, led the work on the construction drawings together with Yvonne Isakas (Planning Manager), Simon Öst (Project Engineer), Janne Boström (Design Engineer) and Lukas Ede (former Design Engineer at Ingenjörsbyrån). Thanks to their efforts and dedication, the first part of the school was commissioned at the turn of 2021-2022, after which work continued on finalizing the drawings for the second part of the school, including the impressive gymnasium with its nine-meter-high ceiling.
An important part of the school’s charm is its architectural details, such as the so-called ‘Spanish staircase’ leading up to the library. During our return visit to Oxhamn School, Yvonne reflects on the different phases of the project. She remembers in particular the challenges of translating the visions of architect Anders Höglund (CEO of Laaja Arkitekter) into concrete construction drawings. The high roof above the entrance and the complex angles in the eastern part of the school were just a few examples of the technical challenges that had to be overcome.
Translating the architect’s vision into feasible designs has been challenging and interesting, which Yvonne and her team handled in an outstanding way. The school was fully ready for opening in January 2023, and the result of their work stood as a monument to both technical expertise and creative vision.