Architect: Jadric Architektur ZT GMBH
Type: Open Competition
Program: Kindergarten
Year: 2024
Location: Wolkersdorf, Österreich
Project Team: Mladen Jadric, Nikolaus Punzengruber, Gabriela Del Rosal, Selina Pick, Lamia Hadzic
Structural Engineer: Dr. Andreas Rudisch
Project Description
URBAN DESIGN
The compact rectangular building is positioned on the north side of the site. The two-storey building impresses with generous glazing and easily usable terraces along its garden façade. An upper floor clad in thermowood rests on a plastered ground floor, whose walls continue in the boundaries of the garden and surround it protectively. The spacious outdoor area with a variety of playground facilities, retreat corners and an orchard adjoins the kindergarten to the south and west.
The traffic access to the property is via a reverse loop with a kiss and ride zone. A generously sized forecourt, which is overlooked by the kindergarten management’s office, provides covered bicycle parking spaces and seating and ensures a clear address along the street.
ARCHITECTURAL APPEARANCE
The architectural language is simple, modern and functional. The design focuses on child-friendly design. Natural materials, light-flooded rooms, bright colours, and a lot of greenery in and around the house create a pleasant, homely ambience. A house mainly constructed of wood with cross-laminated timber walls and ceilings creates a homely atmosphere inside. The economical construction is based on a strict orthogonal grid.
Even in bad weather, the loggias and terraces can be fully used due to the protruding roofs. The garden, designed with site-appropriate planting, invites you to romp, play and discover. Fruit trees, perennials and herb beds serve as a habitat for both young users and the wildlife of the area.
OPEN SPACE CONCEPT – LEARNING FROM AND ABOUT NATURE.
The outdoor area is oriented to the southeast and the rest of the kindergarten’s garden to the southwest. A diverse communal area
with numerous play, experience and learning zones for all age groups will be created. Integrated paths connect individual play options such as swings and slides.
As a contrast to the compact building, the adjacent outdoor areas are designed in the form of a “hortus conclusus”. The natural shade of trees protects the garden against overheating in summer.
