The kindergarten in Krzanowice is a proposal by Maciej Szweda of the Opole University of Technology. His design is a building that refers to the local architecture, inscribed in the urban context, and shapes a multidimensional space conducive to the development and stimulation of the senses of the youngest.
The design of the kindergarten was made under the direction of Dr. Marcin Galkowski and located in Krzanowice - a part of Opole, which until recently was a village in the municipality of Dobrzeń Wielki.
Buildings of a regular character are found only along the main thoroughfare; they are remnants of homestead buildings and appear in the form of a simple block with gabled roofs facing perpendicularly to the street. The fabric is rhythmic and thus organizes the space. In this case, an important element was to fit in with the existing buildings, rather than looking for an exception, by which I emphasize and strengthen the character of the premise," says the author.
The author wanted to match the design of the kindergarten with the existing buildings
© Maciej Szweda
reference to local architecture
The proposed kindergarten is located perpendicular to the main artery, mimicking the surrounding buildings and emphasizing their character. The multifunctional zone that is part of the concept can be used by children during classes, but is also open to people living in the neighborhood - it can serve as a meeting place.
The spun space of the atrium and the rhythm of the facade
© Maciej Szweda
The shape of the building refers to the local architecture - it has the form of a rectangular block with a gabled roof.
In order to create a broader spectrum of shapes, the atrium is spun out, and a garden is created inside, abounding in a range of scents from dry to sweet significantly enriching not only the atmosphere, but also the ecosystem, adds Maciej Szweda.
first floor plan of the kindergarten
© Maciej Szweda
rhythm, wood and color
A rhythm was applied to the wooden façade, which allowed to organize the whole composition. This procedure made it possible to introduce windows in any places, without losing regularity and repetition. Most of the building is covered with wood, making the space warm and welcoming, but rough materials such as white concrete appear in places; according to the author, this is intended to familiarize and befriend children with different kinds of textures. The architect decided to subtly introduce color - in the interiors it appears as a small accent, it also appears on the facade in the window frames, gently suggesting the function of the building.
The layout of the building is divided into several spheres, interpenetrating each other
© Maciej Szweda
interpenetration of zones
The building was created on a structural grid, is based on a module, and its layout is divided into several zones - children's rooms, administration and technical area. However, the flexibility of the whole layout is provided by the space contained between the aforementioned sectors. Thanks to the sliding of the glazing in the atrium, the garden can become part of the interior, as well as remain a separate section. This kind of freedom creates an opportunity to explore this space, creating a new kind of play or games.
the main material used in the building is wood
© Maciej Szweda
stimulation of the senses
An important aspect for the author was the use of a variety of shapes, textures, smells and colors to stimulate the senses of the youngest. Sharp, dynamic shapes are found on the outside, while rounded shapes of a calmer nature are found in the interior, visually calming the space. A wide range of textures from smooth wood to rough concrete stimulates the sense of touch, while a garden located in the atrium provides an array of natural scents that affect the sense of smell.
The author wanted the building to relate to tradition and local architecture
© Maciej Szweda
My goal was to create a building that is an element of development referring to tradition and local architecture, fitting into the urban context, as well as to design a child-friendly space supporting development and, thanks to various stimuli, providing stimulation of the senses, concludes Maciej Szweda.
