EXPLORE
A daycare located in a historical building in Florence, Italy
PROJECT EXPLORE
Location FLORENCE, ITALY
Keywords DAYCARE DESIGN
SUBJECT
Occupied predominantly by a labyrinth-like winding maze, Explore invites children to explore the limits of their imagination, with craftily placed holes to crawl through and a large central pillow pit the colour of fluffy pink cotton candy to promote curiosity and play.
CHALLENGE
The owners were looking for a design that was playful and engaging for children, while maintaing a contemporary look with a true design feel that adheres to visiting parents.
SOLUTION
Playing with levels in order to create visual division, the open concept space was divided into 4 main areas: adult waiting area, staff lounge, an area for play and exploration and an area for focused work and activity. The central maze promotes social interaction and the limitless boundaries of child wonder, while an elevated areats and crafts area with glass walls provides a physical sense of spatial differentiation to invite in concentration and learning. A parent’s lounge separated by slatted wood room dividers provides a calming neutral zone from the busy play areas while still keeping children in plain sight.