Wiesental School, East Building, Baar

The project
The 2018 competition laid the foundation for the expansion of the Wiesental school complex during ongoing operations. Together with PENZISBETTINI Architects, Timbatec impressed with a timber construction concept that later had to be adapted due to changed requirements. Instead of the planned double gym, a triple gym with a significantly larger span of 35 × 50 m was built. The original supporting structure with glulam beams and load-bearing corridor walls was no longer suitable for this. Timbatec therefore developed a new structural concept that efficiently and safely solves the large spans and complex load transfers in the wood. The new school building can accommodate over 500 children.

The construction method
In the replacement building, a two-story wooden structure was erected above the triple gym: a primary truss – covering an area of 35 × 50 m – in combination with a secondary truss. The pressure beams are made of wood, the tension members of steel. Bracing is provided by horizontal diaphragms (ceilings) and strategically placed steel walls. Assembly was carried out in sections with elevation to minimize deformation.

The challenge
The 35-meter span of the triple gym with two floors above it required a combined, complex, and extensive primary and secondary truss system to efficiently distribute loads and minimize deformation. The combination of wood and steel meets high structural requirements.