This summer, MONUM completed work on an ambitious project, which resulted in a new and modern school building complex with a total area of ​​more than 5,500 square metres located in Sigulda. The project involved reconstruction and modernisation of the school building constructed in 1960 (the Trochee Block), which has now been combined with the new building, the Quantum Block, commissioned last year. Together with the adjacent Sigulda Sports Centre built by MONUM, a complex has been shaped: a modern sports and education quarter.

New functionality and look for the Soviet-era school building  

As a result of the extensive reconstruction, the building constructed back in 1960 has acquired 20 modern classrooms with auxiliary rooms, as well as administration and teacher rooms. The reconstructed school building (the Trochee Block) is architecturally adapted to the new Quantum Block of natural sciences and mathematics built by MONUM.

The building underwent a complete replacement of utilities: new water supply and sewerage, ventilation, heating and cooling systems were built in addition to new power supply, communication and video surveillance systems, and an automatic fire detection and alarm system was installed. An auditorium with 90 seats was built on the fourth floor, where it is possible to organise classes for several groups of schoolchildren at the same time.

An inspiring and modern environment for schoolchildren

The space of the Quantum Block of natural sciences and mathematics measuring more than 3,000 square metres on four floors offers twelve classrooms with laboratories and auxiliary rooms, as well as a multimedia auditorium and an information centre with a library. The Quantum Block also includes an assembly hall with the equipment needed for events, premises for school staff, a lift and a spacious dining hall with a kitchen area.

When designing the building, consideration was given to the convenience of the pupils and the staff: the classrooms face south to provide sufficient natural light during school hours, while public spaces have been built on the other side of the building. The new block is equipped with utility systems complying with modern requirements.

The Quantum Block, combined with the reconstructed school building dating back to 1960, forms an inner courtyard shaped as a semicircle – like an amphitheatre that is spatially open in all directions.

Extensive opportunities for active recreation for schoolchildren and locals

In 2017, the new Sigulda Sports Centre was built next to the Trochee Block, and it is connected with the reconstructed school building. Active recreation opportunities in the Sports Centre are used not only by schoolchildren, but also by local residents and visitors. The Sports Centre features two swimming pools, a water play space and recreation area, several baths, a modern gym and weight training hall, a fitness room, a track-and-field athletics section, a multifunctional gym and a stadium. This project was implemented according to the Design & Build principle.

Photo: Atis Tiltiņš