DAYLIGHT NOW GRACES DUBORG SKOLEN

During the renovation of Duborg Skolen in Flensburg, a new lighting concept was introduced to emulate natural daylight conditions. Duborg Skolen, administered by the Sydslesvig School Association, accommodates educational levels equivalent to grades 7–10 of the Danish primary and lower secondary school system, as well as upper secondary levels 11–13.

The building complex consists of an older section (architect Andreas Dall, 1922–24, and Tete Rieve, 1952–54) and a newer building (architects Kjær and Richter, 1977–79). The renovation commenced in 2013 and encompassed a total refurbishment of 13,000 m², including the conversion of existing buildings and the addition of a new 800 m² science wing. All work was carried out with full respect for the building’s protected status.

New Dynamic Lighting
All classrooms, staff rooms, and offices now feature luminaires with dynamic lighting (Human Centric Lighting), where the artificial illumination adapts to the outdoor light conditions. Developed in collaboration with Ulrike Brandi Licht and Okholm Lighting, this concept integrates soft, uniform light with a warm, sun-like component. The result is a lively, even illumination that can be adjusted as needed.

Custom-Developed Luminaires
A bespoke luminaire series was created specifically for Duborg Skolen, suited to both the older and newer sections of the complex. In the historical building, round pendant luminaires with dynamic lighting are utilized, while corridors and stairwells employ luminaires without dynamic control. In the newer building and the new science wing, the concept is implemented through linear ceiling fixtures. All luminaires offer high color rendering and can seamlessly shift from warm to cool light without compromising color quality.

Lighting That Supports Circadian Rhythms
The lighting is managed via DALI/KNX controls and follows natural daylight patterns to help maintain optimal circadian rhythms for students and teachers. Illuminance levels can be increased in the morning and after lunch to enhance alertness, then dimmed throughout the rest of the day to meet standard requirements for educational spaces.

User Feedback
Students report feeling less tired at the end of the school day, and teachers—initially skeptical—now find the new lighting indispensable. The experience demonstrates that the dynamic lighting concept improves comfort and well-being.

FACTS
Client: Sydslesvig School Association and A.P. Møller Foundation
Architect: Praksis Arkitekter
Lighting Concept: Ulrike Brandi Licht & Okholm Lighting A/S
Lighting Project and Luminaire Manufacturer: Okholm Lighting A/S