The new school building in the municipality of Sykkylven on the west coast of Norway was deliberately designed as a solid timber construction made of glulam and cross laminated timber. More than 500 pupils aged 6 to 12 will feel very much at home in the 8,200 m² surrounded by wood, the building owner is convinced. Walls and ceilings are made of cross laminated timber; beams, girders and columns and all other bar-shaped wooden elements are made of around 80 m³ of glulam, with all CNC works at the HASSLACHER sites. Due to the high degree of prefabrication, the construction time for the timber construction also took only nine weeks. After a total construction period of two years, the building will be ready for use in autumn 2023.

Why was this school built in wood?
Wood as a building material is advantageous in many respects. The most important aspect seems to be the environmental aspect or climate protection and the CO2 saving potential. The environmental aspect is a top priority in Norway, as in many other countries. The use of wood in buildings can drastically reduce emissions compared to concrete and steel and at the same time store the greenhouse gas CO2 (carbon dioxide). Wood as a building material has high mechanical properties in relation to its low bulk density, it is easier to work with and transport, it creates a better working environment during construction, and the result is a comfortable and healthy indoor climate. People like to work and live in wooden buildings.

Studies in England, Germany and Austria show that people's heart rates actually decrease when they enter a wooden building. In wooden schools, pupils feel more comfortable, are much calmer and can concentrate better. This is confirmed by numerous studies, but teachers and pupils also find that wood creates a cosy and warm environment for working and learning.