Main entrance of the kindergarten and after-school care center

The building embraces the environment and places itself sensitively in the park landscape.

Children's Castle

Nazareth

Typical plan

Adjacent to a historic castle-like mansion and its gardens, a new care facility is planned for construction. The design integrates three child-focused programs: a daycare center, an after-school care center, and a center for childcare and family support. Each program is given a distinct architectural identity, yet they come together to form a cohesive group of pavilions that blend seamlessly into the surrounding park landscape.

These programs are interconnected within the building while maintaining their operations, except for shared staff functions. This careful balance creates a unique architectural quality in the connections between different spaces. The varied volumes emphasize the distinct identities of each program while fostering a sense of unity.

The building embraces and respects its surroundings, preserving the unique identity of each program while contributing to the overall scale of the environment. Additionally, the facility is designed with sustainability in mind, utilizing renewable energy sources. The flexible design allows for potential future repurposing and expansion, ensuring long-term viability.

  • Design teamDirk Somers, Nicolas De Paepe, Federica Altobelli, Jakub Srnka, Tobias Van Hecke & Milan Delbecke
  • LocationNazareth
  • Year2022
  • ClientLocal government Nazareth & VZW Jeugdhulp Don Bosco
  • ProgramA kindergarten, an after-school care center and a child care and family support center