Savannen Nursery

The design of Savannen Nursery is based on creating optimal spaces for children’s development in downscaled and home-like surroundings. Referencing the archetypal Danish house with pitched roof, windows and a door as portrayed by a child, we designed the nursery to be far less institutional than traditional learning environments, prioritizing the wellbeing of students, staff, families and the community. Further downscaling was achieved by partitioning the building into small units resulting in a clustered structure with niches for varied types of recreation and play zones. These smaller units provide overview and structure, giving children a safe and manageable environment. Additionally, each building has different paneling, providing each space with a unique identity, while maintaining many of the Danish concepts of “hygge” such as togetherness and serenity. Within this flexible framework, the nursery offers different opportunities to support learning and thriving for both individuals as well as small and large groups. Our vision was to create a bright and playful environment with flexible spatial solutions and outdoor areas that lie along natural extensions from the interior. We believe that the outdoor zones are equally as important as the interior spaces in creating ideal conditions for children and staff alike. Furthermore, locals are invited to use the recreation spaces after nursery hours, making it part of the local community. The layout and materials were chosen to minimize the project’s carbon footprint and to give the nursery a green, sustainable profile, enhanced by the use of renewable energy and strategically placed windows and skylights, solar cells integrated into the geometry of the roof, natural ventilation, and the use of geothermal heat. The implementation of integrated sustainable solutions is based on a holistic approach to architecture. We believe that good architecture is about working in a visionary and responsible way—always based on context and strong local anchoring. The detailing and materials were carefully chosen for their ability to patinate and stand the test of time. The sustainable, durable and local timber demands minimal maintenance and creates a warm, friendly and tactile experience for children. The name, Savannen (“savannah”) is inspired by the context of the plot on the open farmland at the edge of the village. We used this landscape to guide our materiality and architectural choices. For example, we blurred the boundaries between interior and exterior spaces to encourage children to play outside. The playground is designed for both play, reflection and learning, and the spaces are divided into different zones according to the context. Further away from the building, play becomes more of an adventure. The landscape becomes increasingly wilder—like an open field or savannah—with ample spaces to hide, explore, experiment and have the experience of independence and “getting away”. Not only do these flexible and dynamic features promote childhood development and emotional wellness, they also support today’s demands for social distancing.