Austrian architects feld72 to have unveiled a stunning timber-clad kindergarten building located in the small village of Valdaora di Sotto in South Tyrol. The contemporary structure’s subtle presence is encased by a solid wall and tucked into the hilly landscape, blending in respectfully with the more traditional buildings in the village
According to the architects’, the building’s design was inspired to be “an embracing gesture between tradition and modernity”. Although contemporary in nature, the design of the 950-square-meter building manages to be a quiet addition to the adjacent historic parish church and elementary school, in no way overshadowing the village’s existing architecture.
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The kindergarten’s design and layout is characterized by its natural boundaries. The elongated and asymmetrical volume follows the uneven terrain, strategically using the space to its advantage. The existing landscape this way enables the architects to give the children optimal outdoor space with a protective barrier. The open green courtyard is enclosed with a tall circumferential fence that provides both privacy and security.
On the interior, large windows provide optimal natural light into the inside play areas. Stone masonry and wooden accents were used to bring a soothing modest atmosphere and the rooms were equipped with partition furniture and walls to give flexibility to the space. The assembly room and multi-function rooms can be adapted as one large space or separated to be used as individual functions.
Via Platforma Arquitectura
Photography by Hertha Hurnaus
