Kindergarten Lagundo

Brief Overview

The Kindergarten Lagundo is an architectural project by feld72, completed in 2022 in Algund, Italy. The project involved expanding an existing kindergarten, aiming to create a dialogue between the flat and pitched roofs of the existing structures. The new design includes a two-story gable-roofed building and a two-story flat-roofed structure. This extension connects to the northeastern part of the property, which was originally designed by architect Gutweniger Willy in 1976.

Alignment with Montessori, Steiner, or Reggio Principles

1. Holistic Ecological Construction: The kindergarten was designed with a holistic ecological construction approach. The annex is a glue-free solid wood building with a wooden façade and green roofs. Such a design aligns with Montessori and Reggio principles that emphasize natural materials and environments for children.
2. Open Learning Landscape: The design integrates an open learning landscape shared by German and Italian-speaking groups. This open concept is reminiscent of Montessori and Reggio environments where children are encouraged to explore freely.
3. Encounter Zones: The focus of the extension is on the encounter zones, which not only opens up architectural possibilities but also pedagogical ones. These zones promote interaction, aligning with all three educational philosophies that value social interaction as a key component of learning.

Design Facilitating Learning

• Solid Wooden Walls: The solid wooden walls, due to their mass and texture, create a pleasant indoor climate. This can enhance the comfort of children and facilitate a conducive learning environment.
• Integration of Open Learning Landscape: The open design encourages exploration, interaction, and free movement, essential for holistic learning.
• Encounter Zones: These zones are designed to promote togetherness and interaction among children, fostering collaborative learning.

Design Helping Teachers Create Inspiring Lessons

• Versatile Spaces: The open learning landscape and encounter zones provide teachers with versatile spaces to conduct a variety of activities, from group discussions to hands-on projects.
• Natural Materials: The use of solid wood and other natural materials can inspire lessons related to nature, sustainability, and ecology.
• Bilingual Environment: The shared space for German and Italian-speaking groups can inspire language-based lessons and cultural exchanges.

Activities and Lessons Suited for this Space

1. Nature Exploration: Given the wooden design and green roofs, lessons about nature, plants, and sustainability would be apt.
2. Language Exchange Programs: Utilizing the bilingual environment to conduct language exchange sessions between German and Italian-speaking children.
3. Collaborative Projects: Using the encounter zones for group projects, art and craft sessions, or storytelling circles.
4. Sensory Activities: The natural textures and materials can be used for sensory exploration activities.

Incorporating Design Elements in Other Kindergarten Environments

1. Use of Natural Materials: Even if a complete overhaul isn’t possible, introducing wooden furniture, planters, or nature-inspired decor can make a difference.
2. Open Learning Spaces: Instead of rigid classroom structures, teachers can create open spaces with movable furniture to encourage exploration.
3. Encounter Zones: Designate areas in the kindergarten where children from different groups or classes can interact, fostering a sense of community and collaborative learning.

In conclusion, the Kindergarten Lagundo by feld72 is not just an architectural marvel but also a space that aligns with progressive educational philosophies. Its design elements can serve as inspiration for educators and architects alike.