Brandenberger Kloter Architekten

Description

The double kindergarten Rüti in Winkel is located between a school for children with disabilities and a new housing estate. The project is noteworthy for its split-level design that adapts smoothly to the existing topography. On the lower level there is an afterschool day-care centre with a panorama view, accommodating children between the ages of four and ten. A wide staircase leads to the upper level, where the two daytime nursery school units (kindergarten i.e. for children ages four to six) face the courtyard and a private playground. A child’s perspective forms the foundation of the design strategy with integrated sleeping and playroom areas, places to hide and varying floor levels. The rooms in the upper and in the lower area are all connected to each other in such a way that a circular walk around is possible. While a light-coloured brick façade and the metal roof are inspired by the local surroundings, the interior finishes are kept simple and clean, with oak wooden flooring, white painted wooden window frames and bricks and columns. The haptic needs of children were crucial for the choice of interior surfaces and natural materials.