Designed by Gardiner Architects, the Bundoora Childcare Centre is a striking example of design that lays emphasis on a child’s experience of built space.
Located on a steep and sloping site, the design and build of the new Bundoora Childcare Centre in Melbourne posed a significant challenge for Gardiner Architects and builder Lloyd Group. What’s more, the site, which includes a retained heritage cottage with an outdoor play area, had to be repurposed into an interesting childcare space. Gardiner Architects also had to find the most effective way to connect the cottage to the outdoors and the new building.
The sloping site necessitated splitting the new building over two levels. For repurposing the cottage, the architecture studio decided to tread the path of sustainability. With the adaptive reuse of old building stock, the studio has ensured that the cottage can now have a new life and purpose. While externally, its structure was retained entirely, internally, openings were created through walls, instead of knocking it all down. The cottage exudes a homely vibe, making it more identifiable and comforting for children.
Based on the number of children specified in the development deal, the architects had to find ways to provide well-sized, integrated and varied outdoor play environments. This is why, elevated outdoor areas were deemed necessary. Also, a tactile, tensioned mesh was introduced to ensure both safety and a connection between the raised outdoor areas and the ground level space.
Internally, the design embraces flexibility and can be adapted to suit different play activities during the day. The colour palette is restrained, with colour functioning as a strong visual identifier. Colour has also been introduced through the bright play equipment and art.
Speaking about the practice’s architectural approach, Principal, Paul Gardiner says, “We feel that the architecture does not have to compete with the range of elements and activities within a children’s learning space. It can instead set the backdrop for the people who are taking care of the children, providing a changeable environment and avoiding creating an over stimulating space.” The outdoor play areas resonate with this approach. Instead of making play spaces too prescriptive, the architects have resorted to creating outdoor areas with a more natural aesthetic, allowing children to explore, learn and be challenged.
The site also embraces sustainability; a 60,000-litre underground water tank helps process stormwater for flushing toilets and enabling garden irrigation. Photovoltaic cells on the roof help generate electricity, while a well-insulated structure ensures lowered demands on heating and cooling.
Discover more projects like this. Subscribe to our newsletter today.
A searchable and comprehensive guide for specifying leading products and their suppliers
Keep up to date with the latest and greatest from our industry BFF's!
The Sub-Zero Wolf showrooms in Sydney and Melbourne provide a creative experience unlike any other. Now showcasing all-new product ranges, the showrooms present a unique perspective on the future of kitchens, homes and lifestyles.
Discover the manifestation of century-old techniques realised with modern technologies
The American Hardwood Export Council promotes the works of next-gen designers through Discovered Singapore exhibition happening from 16 to 22 May at Red Dot Design Museum Singapore.
Channelling the enchanting ambience of the Caffè Greco in Rome, Budapest’s historic Gerbeaud, and Grossi Florentino in Melbourne, Ross Didier’s new collection evokes the designer’s affinity for café experience, while delivering refined seating for contemporary hospitality interiors.
Technē Architecture + Interior Design associate director, Sam Sempill, shares insights into hospitality design.
We spoke to Ketil Årdal, CEO of Danish green-tech design brand, Mater, as they unveiled the Alder collection at Milan Design Week.
For 50 years, Alspec has been a driving force in Australia’s architectural landscape. As a wholly Australian-owned company, their commitment to innovation and exceptional service has positioned them as a leading supplier of aluminium window and door systems for commercial, residential, and industrial applications.
When iconic brands wield their influence, the ripples extend far beyond aesthetics. And so when the MillerKnoll collective formed, the very concept of design shifted, supercharging the industry’s aspiration to create a better world into an unwavering sense of responsibility to do so.
The internet never sleeps! Here's the stuff you might have missed
What’s in a name? At Wardle, a new name marks the next progression in the architecturally designed road for this outstanding practice.
There are objects of desire aplenty in this year’s The Object category at the INDE.Awards and lighting up a room is Pop Lamp designed by Studio Zachary Hanna in collaboration with Mud Australia.