Atrium as the Element of Spatial Configuration in HPS

Taking care of our health has become a priority nowadays. Atrium spaces can be considered as a valuable asset in architecture design because of their dual role. They can contribute to the enhancement of the physical conditions within the building, but they also serve as places of socialization. The focus of this paper is on atrium spaces in educational facilities and on their impact on the physical and psychological health of children. The paper gives a brief overview of atrium development through history and its use in different building typologies focusing on the educational buildings. The second part of this research introduces three schools with atrium spaces in Sarajevo, dating from the socialist period. The current use of those atrium spaces and their potential are discussed. Finally, this paper presents a case study from Sarajevo, a school project with two open atria designed in the way to serve as a multifunctional space with the aim to promote healthy school environment and new, informal ways of learning. The design solution of the introduced school project in Sarajevo follows the strategy of health promoting school (HPS).