Roerich School

Contemporary schools are no longer conceived merely as places for learning, but as holistic educational environments that encourage communication, creativity, and a strong connection with nature. Guided by this philosophy, the project for the private Roerich School in Lozen village has been developed, located at the foothills of Vitosha Mountain and in close proximity to the American English Academy.
The site features a significant change in elevation, which largely determines the layout of the building volumes and its terraced architectural form. During the design process, almost all existing trees have been preserved, while the forested area in the eastern part of the site remains in its natural state and becomes an integral part of the educational environment.
The building is organized into two main volumes, intended respectively for students from first to fourth grade and from fifth to twelfth grade. The complex includes areas for sports and an outdoor playground, a canteen with direct access to the entrance plaza, a library with a large terrace, and a sports hall. Above the sports hall is a cultural events hall which, due to the site’s topography, has access both from within the school building and directly from the street. This allows the space to be used not only by students, but also by the local community during and beyond school hours. The ground floor accommodates a kindergarten and a specialized room for children with special educational needs.
The school’s educational program places equal emphasis on sciences, sports, and the arts. Creative studios are considered just as important as the STEM center. A dedicated workspace for teachers is also provided, offering views both towards the outdoor sports areas and landscaped spaces, as well as towards the sports hall.
Special attention has been given to corridors and shared spaces, which are designed with volumes comparable to those of the classrooms. These areas function as spaces for activity, relaxation, and informal interaction throughout the school day. The distinctive stepped silhouette of the main façade ensures that each floor has access to a landscaped terrace the size of a classroom, creating opportunities for outdoor learning and rest.
Greenery is integrated at every level of the building and across all roof surfaces, contributing to an improved microclimate and a strong sense of connection to nature. The façades incorporate partial cladding in natural wood, further emphasizing the sustainable character of the project.
The school is conceived as a place that supports children’s development not only through knowledge, but through experience, an architecture that inspires learning, creativity, and a sense of community.