Detailed design as the key to efficient timber construction
02.04.2026
Precise construction planning is key: For the new upper secondary school in Ins, Bern, Timbatec developed detailed solutions for the structural framework, connections, and interfaces. This formed the basis for an efficient and seamless implementation of the timber construction project.
«Rötschmatte» Upper Secondary School: Clearly structured, precisely implemented
The «Rötschmatte» upper secondary school in Ins is a modern educational building situated on a hillside. Here, functional clarity is combined with structural precision. The four-story building comprises 15 classrooms and specialized rooms, arranged along a central corridor featuring a main staircase and two vertical escape routes. Two atriums provide natural light inside the building, while the ground floor houses an auditorium with seating for up to 300 people. The clear organization of the school’s functions and its integration into the topography define the architectural concept by Soppelsa Architekten GmbH, Zurich.
© Visualization: Atelier Brunecky | Pirmin Jung
Schematic, sections, architecture: Soppelsa Architekten GmbH, Zurich
Systematic timber construction: Detailed design as the foundation for efficient implementation
Structurally, the project combines a solid concrete base with a three-story timber structure. The primary structure, consisting of columns and beams, is complemented by timber-ribbed ceilings with spans of 4.3 meters. Exterior and load-bearing interior walls are constructed using timber-frame construction, while non-load-bearing partition walls are constructed using lightweight materials. In total, approximately 630 m³ of glued laminated timber and other wood-based materials are used. Upon completion, the facade made of silver fir will give the building a striking, natural appearance.
The large cross-sections of the components and element weights of up to 1.4 tons posed particular challenges. Precise, comprehensive shop planning formed the basis for structured fabrication and coordinated logistics—factors that were crucial to quality and efficient execution.
Added value through close and solution-oriented collaboration
A key factor in our success was the close and solution-oriented collaboration with Strüby Holzbau AG, which contributed its production and installation expertise in a targeted manner. Equally crucial was the coordination with Pirmin Jung, who was responsible for structural engineering, building physics, and fire protection. Together, they created a high-quality timber structure in which planning and execution mesh seamlessly.
The «Rötschmatte» project team
| Area of Responsibility | Client |
|---|---|
| Client | Municipality of Ins |
| Architecture | Soppelsa Architekten GmbH, Zurich |
| Wood Construction Engineering | Pirmin Jung Schweiz AG, Sursee |
| Client for construction planning | Strüby Holzbau AG, Seewen |
| Visualizations | © Atelier Brunecky | © Pirmin Jung |