Architectural Cases

LOW Architecten's Maria Assumpta Institute in Opwijk, Belgium, stands as a pioneering example of educational architecture specifically tailored for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The project's core philosophy is deeply rooted in the concept of the 'hortus conclusus,' an enclosed garden, providing a meticulously structured and serene environment. This design strategically organizes all school functions around a central, protective courtyard, transforming it into the heart of the campus both socially and spatially. Completed in 2025, this 3500 m² facility moves beyond conventional school layouts, offering a comprehensible and calming atmosphere that addresses the unique needs of its students.

The architectural approach prioritizes creating a space that is legible and predictable, reducing sensory overload and anxiety for children with ASD. By centralizing communal activities around a defined, safe outdoor space, the design fosters a sense of security and belonging. This innovative vision by LOW Architecten reimagines how school environments can be crafted to better support and enhance the learning experience for all students, particularly those with specific developmental requirements, making the Maria Assumpta Institute a benchmark in inclusive educational design.

Designing for Neurodiversity: The Hortus Conclusus Principle

The Maria Assumpta Institute's design by LOW Architecten represents a significant advancement in educational architecture, specifically addressing the needs of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). By embracing the ancient architectural principle of the 'hortus conclusus,' or enclosed garden, the school creates a sanctuary-like environment that fosters a sense of safety, clarity, and tranquility. This conceptual framework moves away from the traditional model of fragmented school buildings, instead consolidating all necessary functions around a central, protective courtyard. This courtyard serves as a vital focal point, acting as both the social and spatial heart of the campus, designed to minimize overstimulation and provide a predictable, organized space crucial for students with ASD. The careful consideration of spatial organization and sensory input reflects a deep understanding of neurodevelopmental needs, aiming to create an optimal learning and social environment.

The integration of the 'hortus conclusus' principle translates into a highly structured and secure physical environment where every element contributes to legibility and predictability. This thoughtful layout helps reduce anxiety and enhance the students' ability to navigate and interact within the school. The central courtyard, surrounded by the school's various functional areas, offers a contained yet open space for recreation and social interaction, promoting a sense of community while ensuring safety. This innovative design not only caters to the specific requirements of children with ASD but also offers valuable insights into creating more inclusive and supportive educational spaces for a broader range of learners, marking the Maria Assumpta Institute as a forward-thinking model in contemporary school design.

A Campus Reimagined: Integration and Serenity

The Maria Assumpta Institute, envisioned by LOW Architecten, transcends the conventional understanding of a school building by offering an integrated and serene campus specifically designed for students with autism spectrum disorder. Completed in 2025 and spanning 3500 square meters, the project strategically places all educational and recreational facilities around a unifying central courtyard. This layout is not merely aesthetic but is a functional response to pedagogical needs, ensuring that the entire campus operates as a cohesive, supportive ecosystem. The courtyard acts as a communal core, providing a sense of orientation and a calm outdoor space that is easily accessible and secure for all students, reflecting a design philosophy that prioritizes peace and order over typical bustling school environments.

The design’s meticulous attention to detail extends to every aspect of the school, from the choice of materials to the circulation paths, all aimed at creating a harmonious and predictable sensory experience. The integration of various school functions around the courtyard facilitates seamless transitions between learning, play, and rest, which is particularly beneficial for children with ASD who thrive on routine and clear spatial boundaries. By eschewing a collection of disparate buildings for a unified structure centered around a peaceful core, LOW Architecten has crafted a campus that is both an architectural marvel and a deeply compassionate educational setting, setting a new standard for inclusive learning environments in Opwijk, Belgium, and beyond.

RHO has meticulously crafted the new Enkime Headquarters, a 1000 square meter office space in Berlin-Charlottenburg, Germany, redefining the workplace for a prominent social media agency. Completed in 2026, this project ingeniously integrates contemporary design within a historic industrial courtyard setting. The vision was to create an environment that champions the agency's creative and collaborative spirit, moving away from conventional, often sterile, corporate office aesthetics. The design focuses on fostering a vibrant, adaptable atmosphere that supports diverse work styles and encourages interaction among employees.

The Enkime HQ project was conceived with a clear objective: to develop a workspace that authentically reflects the agency's creator-driven ethos. Rather than opting for generic, branded interiors, RHO pursued a design philosophy centered on durability, natural elements, and adaptability. This approach aimed to cultivate a sense of belonging and creativity, offering a refreshing alternative to the transient feel of many modern offices.

Located in a historically significant industrial courtyard along the Spree river, the building itself provided a rich backdrop for the transformation. RHO’s design cleverly juxtaposes the raw, industrial character of the existing structure with refined, contemporary interventions. This blend creates a unique visual and functional dialogue, respecting the past while firmly embracing the future of work.

The interior layout is a testament to thoughtful spatial planning, featuring a variety of zones tailored to different activities. From communal areas designed for spontaneous collaboration to quiet nooks for focused work, and even recreational spaces, the office supports a broad spectrum of employee needs. The emphasis on natural light, tactile materials, and ergonomic furnishings further enhances the overall experience, contributing to a sense of comfort and well-being.

Key design elements include the strategic use of custom-built furniture, warm wood accents, and a muted color palette, which together create a sophisticated yet approachable ambiance. The integration of sustainable practices and durable materials ensures the longevity and adaptability of the space, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to office design. This holistic design not only accommodates current operational requirements but also anticipates future growth and evolution of the agency.

Ultimately, the Enkime Headquarters by RHO stands as a exemplary model of modern office architecture. It demonstrates how a workplace can transcend mere functionality to become a dynamic hub for innovation and human connection. The project successfully reinterprets an industrial past for a contemporary creative industry, setting a new benchmark for office design in Berlin and beyond.