Transformation of a video library to a 750 m2</sup nursery.
The one storey building of a former video library is – except of one longitudinal side – surrounded by soil. The original floor plan with its polygon shape and its unusual depth turns daylight to the essential aspect of the design concept.
After the transformation a new window system and a maximal, clear room height brings daylight far into every room. In addition, the floor plan is organized in a way that allows a maximum of transparency between the different functions.
The group rooms, the canteen, most part of the circulation and some services are therefore visually linked together by fixed glass elements. Beyond along the façade all group rooms are connected with a visual axis.
In this way the unity and the spatial generosity of the original open space is preserved. The inner walls discreetly delimit the different rooms but appear more as independent elements than they create enclosed spaces.
The new premises create due to their openness and airiness a pleasant atmosphere for the nursery, without affecting its functionality. Furthermore, a spacious garden is part of the nursery and enables the children to play in nature.
Year: 2015-21016
Place: Berlin, Germany
Photographer: Simon Menges