Nyckelviksskolan Extension: A Masterpiece of Contemporary Brick Architecture

Blending Tradition with Modernity

Nyckelviksskolan, an esteemed institution on Lidingö in Sweden, has been a hub for art, crafts, architecture, and design education since 1955. With growing demand for expanded facilities, Marge Arkitekter designed an extension that seamlessly integrates with the existing school while establishing a distinct contemporary identity. This architectural intervention embodies contemporary brick architecture, redefining how educational spaces embrace both tradition and innovation.

A Sculptural Brick Monolith

The new extension serves as a connecting element between the original plaster and brick structures, adding a bold yet harmonious layer to the campus. Designed as a sculptural brick monolith, the volume is carefully chiseled with expansive, wooden-framed glass openings, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the interiors. Its east-facing entrance creates an inviting presence, while its strategic placement fosters a cohesive dialogue with the surrounding buildings.

Materiality and Structural Integrity

The extension’s façade features site-laid bricks in varying red tones, creating a dynamic, textured surface that respects the historical essence of the school. The hybrid structural system combines prefabricated concrete and steel, while glulam beams frame the studio’s roof lights. This blend of materials ensures durability, aesthetic refinement, and a strong connection to the existing architectural language.

Designed for Artistic Exploration

Dedicated to ceramic and sculpture workshops, the new space is meticulously designed to support creative learning. A souterrain level opens to an outdoor teaching area, fostering an immersive environment where students can seamlessly transition between indoor and outdoor artistic practices. Skylights in the sculpture studios flood the spaces with diffused natural light, enhancing the ambiance and functionality of the workspace.

A Future-Forward Approach to Brick Architecture

Nyckelviksskolan’s extension exemplifies how contemporary brick architecture can be both contextual and forward-thinking. By respecting its historical surroundings while introducing modern spatial concepts, the project sets a new standard for educational architecture. Through material innovation and strategic design, the extension embodies a timeless approach to integrating new and old, proving that brick remains a versatile and enduring element in modern architecture.

All Photographs are works of Johan Fowelin