Early Waldorf school architecture

Abstract

This thesis provides an historical overview of the development of anthroposophy in the Netherlands and its impact on school architecture, with a specific focus on the Vrije School in The Hague. Through primary and secondary source analysis, the paper explores the origin of anthroposophy and the Waldorf education system, the influence of anthroposophy on architecture and design, the spread of the anthroposophical movement in the Netherlands and the establishment of the first Waldorf School in the Hague. Further it investigates the key principles and features of anthroposophical design found in school architecture practice during the early spread of the movement. It explores anthroposophical school design as organic architecture, which communicates with people on an emotional, psychological, mental, moral, and spiritual level. The case study of the Vrije School allows for a better understanding of the application of anthroposophical principles in school architecture, including the school's L-shaped floor plan, the use of organic forms and colors, and the careful consideration given to supporting the Waldorf education system. Overall, this research highlights the course of events that led to the development of anthroposophy and the Waldorf education system in the Netherlands and formed important motives behind the design of the Vrije School.