Preschool Treperka and Waldorf Semily

BKT in combination with underfloor heating

The internal layout and operational construction division revolves around two focal points (dining/workspaces) and empty centers, which serve as the heart of operations and communication zones for each school. Playrooms, bedrooms, and service areas are located around the perimeter. In the Treperka Kindergarten, the walls are designed in seven shades of color reminiscent of a rainbow. In the Waldorf School, massive softwood is omnipresent, combined with natural pastel colors. The unique architecture also demanded unconventional solutions for the technical background of both schools. The concrete construction of both schools has led to the selection of an original heating method that combines the BKT system with underfloor heating. Everything is from REHAU.

BKT is a system of surface-tempered concrete ceilings, with the primary source of heat, or cooling, being a heat pump with a heating capacity of 27.9 kW and a cooling capacity of 26 kW. In the BKT system, the RAUTHERM piping, through which the heating medium flows, is integrated in the middle of the concrete monolith of the ceiling, with all branches of the heating circuits being of equal length and essentially forming a double meander. This low-temperature system accumulates heat or cold in the concrete mass, which is then emitted radiantly into the interior. For the underfloor heating, the RAUTHERM SPEED system was chosen, where the piping is fixed to a special substrate board using Velcro. Such a solution allows for easy and adaptable installation. The piping forms four branches with distributors and 5,5,8,8 circuits. The system heats and cools in both systems over an area of 330 m². In addition to the heat pump, a secondary heat source in the form of a gas condensing boiler with a range of 12-49 kW is also installed. The heat loss of the buildings is 29.9 kW. The installation of HVAC was essential, cooperating with both surface systems, and helping to maintain a favorable climate inside the schools throughout the year. Two standalone condensing units served as the source of cooling for the HVAC.

Large glazed areas and light influx

The source of natural light is a richly glazed facade, complemented by ventilated parts of the facade and colorful HPL cladding. Two circular skylights lead to the roof, where air handling units and necessary conduits are located. For the design of the interior layout, a dry construction method was chosen, using the Knauf system. The anchoring of partitions to the reinforced concrete ceiling had to be done with a maximum depth of 100 mm due to the heating pipes of the BKT system.

The heating solution in the form of comprehensive REHAU systems is ideal for both schools. The advantage is the principle of radiant heat exchange, as this system is healthier and more comfortable for people compared to other conventional systems. An additional bonus is the silent and dust-free operation. Due to the low-temperature regime, the operation is efficient and economical, of course, smart regulation must not be absent. The project of the Treperka Kindergarten and the Waldorf School in Semily serves as an inspiring example of the connection between extraordinary architecture and modern technology in the context of ecological solutions.

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Photo archive Marek Topič and MBQ, s.r.o.