NWZ: Fire bar in Suessen

In its article from December 13, 2024, the Neue Württembergische Zeitung (NWZ) sheds light on the development of costs and decisions surrounding the new Bizet school building in Goeppingen. At the center of the discussion are the building's fire barriers, whose changed use of materials and increased costs attracted the attention of the local council and the public.

Originally, our office, Gaus Architekten, had planned concrete fire barriers, which offered aesthetic benefits in addition to their functionality. These would not only have visually structured the façade, but also provided additional sun protection in the classrooms. However, as part of efforts to save money, the local council opted for a cheaper alternative made of metal. Unfortunately, this change led to complications: delayed tenders, a lack of bids and ultimately a significant increase in costs.

"It was the wrong decision," admitted representatives of the local council - an honest admission in a challenging project. Despite everything, the total cost of the new school building remains within an acceptable range in view of rising construction prices.

We are grateful for the recognition of our original planning and take the challenges as an incentive to continue developing economically and architecturally sensible solutions.

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