Under the oak, beyond the oak...

In an international competition we are runners up. Coming 2nd among 69 proposals!

We propose a kindergarten based on two principles.
A house at the edge enriching the public space.
A pavilion in the garden nestled among trees.

The doorstep of the house embraces its surroundings under the oak tree avenue. By demolishing the garages, we shape a forecourt that will be part of the recreational area. A new informal multi-generational playground in place of the garages is attractive not only to the kindergarten's target group.

We split the pavilion’s facade, the recesses open up space for covered terraces allowing for outdoor activities and play in all weather conditions. A play slope encloses separate outdoor garden rooms for each class.

The heart of the kindergarten is a communal, articulated hall connecting the entire house. It brings in light and offers views of the garden. Its space is generous and suitable for children's games as well as gatherings with parents. The layout of the house is fully barrier-free.

The architecture considers a child's scale. Low classroom parapets at ground level. Windows sized for their users leading outside. Doors with viewpoints at heights for adults and children alike. The classrooms are open and clear but also offer their own nooks.

Outdoor rooms with a slope act as a natural play element with climbing frames and a slide, above them a paved path linking the barrier-free house, the playground to the south with a large sandpit to the north. The garden beyond the path offers educational stations inspired by its neighbours (allotment gardens, small Šumava...).

The construction is lightweight, wooden, and prefabricated. It draws from the visuality allotment gardens and sports facilities. However, technologically, this is not a DIY project but a clever set of appropriate technologies reducing the building's energy demand and eliminating complex details.