EVALUATION OF MORTARS, WATER-REPELLENT AND BIOCIDE TREATMENTS, AND MICROBIOLOGICAL STUDY FOR THE RESTORATION OF THE MAIN FACADE OF THE ORIXE ZULOAGA PRIMARY SCHOOL (SAN SEBASTIÁN, BASQUE COUNTRY)
The Orixe Ikastola, located in the Zuloaga building on Calle Aldamar in San Sebastián, is a prime example of architectural intervention in a heritage setting, combining the preservation of historical value with adaptation to the functional requirements of a modern educational centre. This building, deeply rooted in the urban fabric of San Sebastián’s Old Town, has undergone various works aimed at ensuring its conservation, safety and efficiency.
🛠️ Background information
🏗️ Integral Rehabilitation (2004-2007)
Between 2004 and 2007, the building underwent a major comprehensive refurbishment led by the architect José Mari Querejeta, with the aim of adapting it to house a haurreskola and classrooms for children aged 2 to 7. The project, which preserved the original architectural features, involved an investment of around €5 million, of which €800,000 was specifically allocated to the restoration of the façades.
♻️ Efficiency and sanitation improvement
🧱 Performance in the Urgull building (2016)
The Urgull building, which is also part of the Orixe Ikastola, was refurbished in 2016 to improve its thermal insulation, prevent damp and remove asbestos-containing materials. The work included a new insulated façade, the waterproofing of terraces and improvements to the building envelope, with an approximate budget of €417,000, jointly funded by Donostia City Council and the Basque Government.
🧱 Recent restoration of facade
🏛️ Intervention in 2024
Due to the progressive deterioration of the sandstone on the main façade of the Zuloaga building, which posed a risk of falling debris, an urgent restoration project was approved in 2024. The project, drawn up by Zetabi Arkitektura Bulegoa, includes measures such as:
- Stone cleaning
- Elimination of biotic colonisation
- Replacing joints with hydraulic lime mortar
- Repair of cornices and original woodwork
This action, with a budget of 376,000 euros and a completion period of six months, aims to guarantee structural safety and preserve the historical value of the building.
🧩 Framework for our intervention
Our proposed intervention is set against this backdrop of ongoing work on the building; it aims to build on the conservation efforts already undertaken, incorporating modern technical solutions that are compatible with the building’s architectural identity and its educational requirements. Our project is intended to be a respectful and effective contribution that ensures the building’s functionality, accessibility and sustainability, both now and in the future.