The approach to learning at the Grange Road Kindergarten is one of discovery through play.
The educational environment utilizes internal and external spaces, so the design created unrestricted visual, and physical connections between the playground and the classroom.
On approach to the kindergarten children are invited and excited by the gradient of vibrant colours upon the low-height pailing fence which hovers over the blue gum timber ramp. Upon arriving at the kinder each day the design attempts to incite happiness and inspiration to the child’s day.
These elements, incorporating tiered timber seating at the site’s approach, now provides a fun, light filled, transitional space, wide enough for times of heavy pedestrian traffic and informal conversations, along with the storage of bicycles and prams.
The new classroom is flooded with northern and eastern light. The northern elevation contains a pop-out plywood window seat, offering a place for the children to sit in the morning and afternoon sun.
The external canopy colour mimics the sun-dappled leaves, enhancing the connection with the natural environment, whilst offering shelter above theatrette style timber seating.
Interconnecting and transitional spaces remove boundaries, and create a sense of unity throughout the project and building’s entirety.