School Center of Davos Platz Wins 2025 Architizer Award

The revitalized School Center of Davos Platz in Switzerland has caught the attention of the architectural world, securing the 2025 Architizer Award in the “Primary & High Schools” category. Designed by Munich-based CURA Architekten, the project is a compelling example of how existing school infrastructure can be transformed to meet contemporary standards without erasing its architectural heritage. Rather than replacing the 1960s structure, the architects embraced a circular mindset—both literally and conceptually—delivering a forward-thinking response to sustainability, education, and preservation.

A Young Studio with a Responsible Outlook

CURA Architekten, founded by Otto Closs and Marc Ritz, may be relatively young, but their approach speaks with maturity and care. Specializing in adaptive reuse and environmentally responsible design, CURA’s work often navigates the tension between old and new. Their approach is grounded in the belief that architectural transformation doesn’t require erasure. In Davos Platz, they applied this philosophy with precision, choosing to preserve and enhance the existing school structure rather than demolish it.

The firm’s name, “CURA,” meaning “care” in Latin, feels especially apt here. The architects describe their process as integrative—balancing ecological goals with user needs and urban context. Their work in Davos is less about architectural showmanship and more about thoughtful orchestration of space, materials, and energy systems.

A “Wooden U” That Wraps the Past

The most striking element of the redesign is the “wooden U” structure that envelops the original school building. Instead of demolishing and rebuilding from scratch, the architects added a timber construction that extends and complements the old layout. This move reduced the volume of new construction by 40%, significantly minimizing material consumption and carbon emissions.

Beyond aesthetics, this decision underscores a broader design strategy—make use of what exists, and improve upon it. It’s an architectural gesture that doesn’t scream for attention but speaks clearly about values: sustainability, continuity, and humility. The atrium formed at the heart of the structure serves both spatial and environmental functions, fostering natural ventilation and daylighting.

Low-Tech, High-Impact Sustainability

Rejecting high-energy systems in favor of smart passive solutions, the school operates largely on a “LowTech” model. All learning spaces are designed for cross-ventilation using operable skylights and strategic airflow. During summer months, no mechanical ventilation is needed. The atrium acts as a thermal chimney, naturally regulating interior climate conditions.

In addition to these passive systems, the school employs advanced renewables. A robust photovoltaic array supplies the school’s electricity needs, while a geothermal energy system ensures efficient heating throughout the year. These choices reflect an understanding of how architecture can contribute meaningfully to long-term energy goals—without relying solely on gadgetry.

A Campus That Works for People

Functionally, the upgraded School Center accommodates students from grades 1 to 10 across 13 classrooms. The expansion includes a new day structure that brings together a cafeteria, assembly hall, and central administrative offices—all integrated within a warm, tactile timber interior.

What makes this school more than just a place for instruction is its atmosphere. With generous use of wood, abundant daylight, and open spaces, the design cultivates a sense of calm and dignity. It’s not just a building where learning happens—it’s a place that encourages it.

Technical Sheet