Kindergarten and nursery „Dandelion“, Krapinske Toplice
Kindergarten in Krapinske Toplice is located in an environment where dense urban structure of variable scale meets the untouched nature. Small and large family houses, a school, a church, community center as well as large hospital complex, are opposed to the natural forest landscape. In this stimulating in-between situation on the slope of a wooded hill, the kindergarten is designed as a layered spatial framework to grow up, play, and learn, in a strong dialogue with natural and urban context.
The radial typology responds to the existing "in between state" - although it corresponds with the large scale of public buildings nearby, the five parts reflect the smaller scale of surrounding family houses. The building articulates the plot with its „arms“, forming diverse outer spaces (entrance, separate playgrounds for nursery and kindergarten, rear entrance and suplly yard), and framing the parts of the context.
The simple and clearly structured spatial organization follows the slope through section, forming an inner topography appropriate for a kindergarten on the hill. As a result, all levels are connected through a system of gentle ramps and united with a single, gently sloped roof plane.
The space is designed as a didactic instrument; little users are exploring the building (and the environment) through movement (walking, climbing and descending), constant change of perspective (below, above, beside ...) and multiple transparency (sequencing of the plans and framing the context). Spatial relationships, yellow and green color tones, the furniture and signage are carefully designed to create a contemporary and stimulating environment for children and ensure a balance between a sense of security and openness, familiar and new...
