European School | Competition

Modern architecture concentrates on the necessity for new social networks. Now is the time to promote the connection alongside other professionals who deal with space and society, and define the role of architecture in society.

The kindergarten is a centre for the whole community. The relationships between children from ages 1 to 6 are very open in comparison with other relationships between adults. Therefore, the kindergarten can be considered and understood as an ideal place to fight against social and xenophobic differences. Seeing this as something open to the public, is the first step to encourage a sense of community.

The proposal was developed around the common spaces. The walls of the kindergarten and not on the boundaries of the site. At the entrance to the site, exists a parking lot and playground - a common public and open space. The covered common area can be used, not only for kindergarten activities but also for birthday parties and family reunions. The idea is that parents and adults would not stay at the entrance, but would feel as if they are within a nursery (under certain conditions). The kindergarten should be at the centre of everyday life, of the community.

The building was projected on the ground, with a single volume. The creation of a patio and halls is a way of involving nature in its free spaces. The north facade works as a wall that divides the public and the private. A multi-use space is open to the south to terraced spaces of recreation associated with the primary school.