Gardiner Architects created an inspiring space for play at the Kingsville Early Learning Centre in Kingsville, Australia.

There is a growing demand for childcare and related early learning services in Melbourne. Gardiner Architects have worked on a range of childcare projects in inner urban areas where the zoning allows for childcare in order to meet the demand locally. New childcare facilities, whether in new built for purpose buildings or upgraded existing building stock, are typically infill developments. In addition, in order to accommodate enough children on inner urban sites that are often limited in size, developments typically need to be two storeys. As a consequence, the design response needs to accommodate the required building mass in a sensitive, considered way that doesn’t dominate the street or neighbouring properties.

Illustrating this approach is the Kingsville Early Learning Centre, situated on a busy road and hemmed on three sides by single-storey residential neighbours. To accommodate the required indoor and outdoor areas, a two-storey design with an elevated outdoor area was developed. Aspects of the built form such as the roof pitch and cladding, were selected in response to the surrounding residential properties, ensuring a cohesive rather than clashing architectural expression.

Design: Gardiner Architects
Photography: Tess Kelly