ZPZ Partners is an architectural firm based out of Italy that completed a project design for Gruppo Cariparma Crédit Agricole revolving around a nursery for children aged between 12 to 36 months. The crèche, named Nido, will be divided into two classes with one catering to younger children and the other for older kids. The project had to follow three main guidelines; finding a balance between architecture and pedagogy; ensuring that the nursery is sustainable; and, combining the building into a public private hybrid.
A look at the layout of the nursery will reveal a spacious interior with everything strategically positioned to offer children enough space to play and learn while also keeping it well connected so everyone can engage in harmonious learning and interaction. The wings of Nido are connected by a roof, which is accessible from the air conditioned central piazza. The classrooms and the laboratories, the latter of which comprise atelier and lunch areas, are situated towards the south of the building to maximize the entry of natural light and offer the children and staff a scenic view of green areas. Spaces like offices and service areas are situated toward the north and overlook the road.
The classrooms have been neatly designed and are further divided into areas meant for various activities. There is space for sleeping, a bathroom and a cloakroom. The central square receives natural light from a round skylight. The area offers children a differently designed space for play and other activities between the two classes.
The building itself comprises a series of structures connected by the central square covered with differently shaped geometric roofs. This is done to maximize sunlight absorption for the solar cells that supply the building’s electricity. Covered porches and the loggia of the building’s wings have been designed using vertical planks of wood. This gives the structure a unique design that beautifully textured and airy.
Via: Archdaily
