The building at 53 Batorego Street in Zielona Gora, once bustling as a municipal kindergarten, got a chance for a second life after years of disuse. {tag:studenci} from the University of Arts in Poznań, proposed adapting the place into a day support space for children. Her bachelor's thesis, completed under the supervision of Natalia Kliśko-Walczak, PhD, is a combination of "healthy architecture" and the therapeutic needs of the youngest children.
entrance area
© Magdalena Bobrek-Worchacz
health architecture in practice
The basis of the concept was "healthy architecture," an idea Magdalena took from the work of Marta Perminska. Healthy architecture not only promotes well-being, but also supports therapeutic processes. The main goal was to create a place that is not only functional, but also warm, family-oriented and stimulates the development of children with various difficulties.
Group activity room with modular audience seating
© Magdalena Bobrek-Worchacz
traces of the past in a new space
The author's design respectfully refers to the building's history. Original elements, such as balusters of balustrades, doorframes and handles, were preserved and incorporated into the new interiors. This has given the space a unique character, and allows children and therapists to feel part of the history of the place.
sensory integration room
© Magdalena Bobrek-Worchacz
The building has been divided into two main zones: daytime and therapeutic. The first floor serves as an educational and entertainment space, with classrooms, a communal kitchen, a group activity room and a free play area. The first floor, on the other hand, houses specialized spaces, such as the Sensory Integration Therapy Room and the "green room" - a place for relaxation and well-being exercises.
classroom
© Magdalena Bobrek-Worchacz
tranquility and functionality
A subdued color scheme was used in the design to help children relax from an excess of stimuli. The whiteness of the walls and ceilings was warmed by birch plywood and warm wooden floors. Graphics in a limited color palette add a serene touch to the space. The interiors are enhanced with fluted glass that reflects light, creating an effect of brightness and spaciousness.
residence hall
© Magdalena Bobrek-Worchacz
The design of the building's furniture was thought out for maximum usability. Central segments in each room provide space for storage, play and learning. Desks are equipped with opening tops, and seating includes pull-out storage and tables. The kitchen has become a place for communal integration - the thoughtful organization of the space makes it both functional and user-friendly.
sensory journey
One of the key elements of the project is the Sensory Integration Therapy Room. It has been divided into three zones: movement, sensory and relaxation. Equipment such as moving rods, manipulative boards, a foam pool and soft blocks support the different therapeutic needs of children. The floor in this room is designed to stimulate the senses and introduce children to another dimension of perception.
green room
© Magdalena Bobrek-Worchacz
On the first floor there is room for a "green room " - a space designed for rest, meditation and relaxation exercises. Subtle colors, natural materials and consistent interior design promote stress reduction and harmony of body and mind.
A thoughtful response to the needs of children
Magdalena Bobrek-Worchacz's project is an example of how architecture can respond to community needs. By carefully understanding the needs of the users, the space not only promotes therapy, but also builds a sense of security and belonging.
kitchen
© Magdalena Bobrek-Worchacz
The adaptation of the building at 53 Batory Street is not only the revitalization of a vacant building, but also the creation of a space that connects the past with the present. Thanks to the work of Magdalena Bobrek-Worchacz, the former kindergarten could become a place of support and development, changing children's lives for the better.
