Selected Project
Westport Early Learning Centre
The brief required a welcoming, safe facility to accommodate 37 preschool children, twelve under two’s and staff. The relationship of the building to the site is of major importance and is primarily expressed through the undulating roof plane, a reference to the stunning mountain backdrop. The dynamic, organic roof shape ties the building to its physical context plus it helps to moderate the effects of sound reverberation in the main play space. A rich and varied materials palette creates a warm, welcoming feeling in the building that captures and celebrates the unique feel of the West-Coast environment which also demands a selection of robust materials and detailing. The building is arranged around the two main play spaces, one is a nursery for the under two’s and the other larger space for preschool children. These are flexible spaces with finishes easily maintained. Play spaces are located on the north side receiving all-day sun which is tempered by large canopy and corner “eyebrow” solar shading. The main play spaces open up to a covered deck which is well protected from the prevailing westerly weather by projecting wc “pods” clad in Cedar weatherboarding. These pods are able to be easily accessed from the external play spaces minimizing the extent of mess being taken into the building. The landscape design has been fully integrated with letters and numbers formed in the concrete paving which are planned to be filled in by the children with insects, shells and rocks from the native area and set into a resin. The intention has been to make learning fun and encourage the children on arriving and departing the building. Feedback from building users, visitors and the local residents is very positive. Our hope is that everyone can enjoy the building and feel inspired by it.
- Category
- Education
- Location
- Canterbury
- Year
- 2018
