Concept. Due to the limited footprint and urban context buildings are conceived as compact vertical volumes.
The program is divided into two facing buildings which are placed on the edges of the plot.
In between the facing buildings is a communal green space which is orientated to the south.
The open space is lifted one floor above ground to give privacy and create a continuous plinth on street level. This plinth is perforated to create different entrances and passages.
Architecture and materialization. The classrooms of the kindergarten are wrapped around a communal space. The communal spaces are connected over the different levels through a system of stairs, slides and tribunes. The atrium is used for capturing light, cooling and ventilation.
The function of kindergarten is complemented by a multifunctional gymnasium and mediatheque. The gymnasium is placed in the crown of the building. External users can enter on street level were dressing rooms and lounge are located.
Sliding doors between classes and the corridor create the possibility to open the floor for group activities.
The square shape of the classrooms is ideal for various furniture arrangements. Each classroom is fitted with a sanitary block and personal flower garden.
Sustainable building. On the scale of the building a number of techniques can be applied to reduce energy consumption. The roofs on top of the gymnasium make use of the south orientation to generate warm water and electricity through solar panels. Rainwater is recuperated. The atrium is used for natural ventilation. The thermal mass is applicable for night cooling.
The spaces are flexible in uses and can take on different functions in time, guarantying a long life for the building.
