FRÖK

Open spaces for a KITA with a focus on nature experience in the "Kiefernwäldchen" and "Quartierspark"

The new “House for Children” is located in the middle of the urban green space “Haidpark” at the interface between the newly built neighbourhood and the older residential areas. The site, situated to the south of the flora-fauna habitat “Fröttmaninger Heide, is comprised of facilities that can accommodate approximately 111 children, up to 10 years of age, in crèche groups, kindergarten and after-school care. Additionally, the property is nestled in a grove of warped, sheltered pines and the surrounding park. This context not only gives the property a unique setting, but also the inspiration for its design.
The primary maxim for the project is the preservation of the individual trees and the impression of the overall ensemble of open and tree-covered meadow areas, into which the building is integrated in an unobtrusive manner.
The open spaces are intended to create a flowing transition to the surrounding park and at the same time, offer spaces for retreat and outdoor integration within the property. The dominant themes are wood, gravel and heath, each interpreted in the fields of experiencing nature, activity and retreat for the different age groups. The building portrays a variety of references to these considerations: whether through the materiality of the wooden façade; the integration of appropriate colours; a reference of “open space” in the west; or in the spatial quality of “tree balconies” on the upper floor and group rooms.