Social Media

This centre shows that a tight budget needn't compromise the architecture serving the child. Instead here warmth, functionality and a sense of play prevail


Situated in New Zealand's Taranaki is the recently completed (and NZIA Awarded) Jumpstart Preschool designed by Atelier Workshop.

The modest building has been praised by the New Zealand Institute of Architects for its response to the difficult industrial context and a tight budget. A simple form, aesthetic and use of material is employed in a way that is conducive to the required scale and robust requirements required by early childhood education and care pedagogy.

Seen above, Mount Taranaki looms in the distance.



Externally, the simple elongated A-framed building features corrugated metal cladding, semi-transparent polycarbonate sheet sun-screening and floor to ceiling aluminium framed glazed panels and doors leading out to the large outdoor (and mostly natural) play area.




Internally, "cheap" particle board floors and walls offer both the advantage of needing minimal maintenance (no future re-painting) and offering a textured warmth to the space.

Carpet is used also sparingly and timber slats are used as a feature for the balcony. A minimal use of blue and green (doors, trims and cabinetry) adds a splash of accent colour and fun.




Seen above is an "indoor-outdoor" space (enclosed porch) offering play no matter the weather with a feeling of being closer to the outdoors.

Below, planter boxes provide the means for children to learn about and grown their own food.




And the fitted out kitchen space to prep said food! 

Overall it is a modest yet functional and thoughtful response to providing an architecture for young children.

Via NZIA Awards.

 

site by Ana Degenaar