Located on a square urban block bounded by four roads, Joensuu Lyceum in Joensuu, Finland is a primary school for 250 pupils. A windmill-shaped plan form divides the school into four three-storey wings that are connected by a central foyer housing the dining area at ground level with the main hall above. The crisp lines and sophisticated finishes on both the inside and outside of the building mean the school could easily be mistaken for a university building.

However, the teachers are clear that the children respect this ‘grown-up’ environment as it makes them feel like the young adults they are becoming. Entering the school, the central foyer is immediately revealed in all its spatial glory, a dramatic and powerful entrance. However, it is the very materiality and the colours which are outstanding. Each child is provided with their own full-size locker to store the multiple layers of outdoor clothing necessary in Finnish winters. The result of this considered storage is an uncluttered environment that helps to create the mature ambience of the whole school. The architects have not opted for ‘schoollike’ primary colours, but a more fashionable palette including lime green and bright orange. The spectacular colours and the finesse of the detailing, such as the elegant yellow glass balustrades, make the space feel sunny and sophisticated and somewhere to linger.

As one enters the school, the interior finishes, with clean lines, designer furniture and white walls with injections of colour, all contribute to the school’s ‘grown-up’ feel. Colour again is used selectively to identify each wing through large-scale graphics and huge light fittings. The layout of Joensuu Lyceum has been carefully chosen to allow the classrooms to be naturally lit and ventilated.

The stepped plan form of each block creates a large surface ensuring that each classroom has glazing in at least two faces to admit as much light as possible in this country of dark winters. Each of the four teaching blocks is provided with its own ancillary facilities and storage towards the inside of the school, again helping to clarify both the plan and the whole concept of the school and encourage students to respect and enjoy the spaces.

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