A red facade under large hipped roofs awaits us here at Schulhaus Letten. This isn’t just any school building. It is a piece of Zurich’s history. Let’s delve into the story of Schulhaus Letten.
Schulhaus Letten stands proudly in Zurich’s Letten district at Imfeldstrasse 28. It was constructed between 1913 and 1915. The Bräm brothers designed it. Their vision shaped this impressive structure.
A design competition preceded the construction. Interestingly, no first or second place was awarded. The Bräm brothers secured third place with their project. Karl Hover and Knell & Hässig jointly took fourth place. The Bräm brothers also achieved fifth place with another design. Bollert & Herter came in sixth.
The building showcases a home style design. A gymnasium extends at a right angle from the main structure. The front of Schulhaus Letten is symmetrical. A three-arched passage leads to the rear playground. The red plaster and hipped roofs give it a distinctive look.
Inside Schulhaus Letten, five murals by Paul Bodmer adorn the walls. These artworks add a unique artistic touch to the school’s interior. They enrich the learning environment for students and staff.
Otto Kappeler created sculptures for the school’s facade. He also designed the Baldachinbrunnen in the rear playground. Hermann Hubacher designed the round fountain with a bronze sculpture in the front courtyard. It was built in 1928 and 1929.
Schulhaus Letten underwent renovations from 1981 to 1984. Today, it is a protected monument. The city recognizes its architectural and cultural value.
The building presents a symmetrical main front with a three-arched passage. This leads to the rear schoolyard. The building volume is staggered on the rear side. It follows functional criteria. Its proportions and red plaster give the building a cozy look. For a long time, it was a prime example of home-style school buildings in Switzerland.
The cheerful coloring and artistic design employ a childlike visual language. Natural motifs manifest a conscious departure from school construction of the Historicism period.
The outdoor area is split into two courtyards. Both feature artistically significant fountains. The complex is still fully enclosed by a wall with ornaments. A pavilion serves as an entrance gate. The rows of trees are also of historical origin.
Today, Schulhaus Letten houses several primary school classes. There are also care facilities, a swimming pool, and a gymnasium. Schulhaus Letten is more than just a school. It is a vibrant community hub.