Baukooperative Blends Aesthetics and Functionality in the Design of Kindergarten Kaumberg

Baukooperative Architects completed the kindergarten construction as part of a gymnasium renovation project at Kaumberg Elementary School. Kindergarten Kaumberg is located in Kaumberg, Austria, and it has a building concept that supports the transition of children's learning journey. The 1,108 m² building emphasizes connection, learning, and creativity while responding to the community's growing need for educational facilities, especially kindergartens.

The Kaumberg region of Austria began to experience unrest as one kindergarten was no longer sufficient. In response, Baukooperative considered expanding the existing building or building a new one. Although Baukooperative often restores old buildings, demolition and rebuilding were the best solutions to increase the facility's functionality in this case.

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

Baukooperative collaborated with the Kaumberg municipality in planning for the two kindergarten projects.  The kindergarten was built on the same land as the previous building, without losing the essence of connection with the elementary school to keep it connected. According to him, the placement on the same land is to maintain the continuity of educational space and pay attention to the growth process of the transition of the student's learning journey.

Meeting the children's and the community's needs regarding kindergarten begins with a warm and bright interior design. The school's facade uses wooden materials to create a welcoming atmosphere for its occupants. As a school that supports children's growth and development, Baukooperative designed many areas with large landscapes and direct access to nature. 

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

The building has two parts that offer green areas with different perspectives. On the ground floor, students and teachers have direct access to the green garden and courtyard. The upper floor provides an interaction experience with nature through a spacious dedicated space with large glass windows. Students can enjoy the changing weather as well as receive good sunlight. The balcony on the upper floor can also enjoy the natural air with stunning views. Baukooperative wants to ensure that all parts of the school can provide the best experience in the process of interacting with nature.

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

The interior of each school room is designed to prioritize warmth, joy, and, of course, the students' comfort. The comfort they feel can enhance their creativity and exploration process. Spacious rooms with adequate facilities encourage them to interact with each other in meaningful ways.

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

Furniture and room arrangements are tailored to the needs of the students while prioritizing practicality and aesthetics. The room arrangement is maximized to provide curiosity for the students. Doing so indirectly nurtures the holistic development of the students. 

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)

Wooden elements are used as the main composition to make it more friendly and invite children to be more aware of environmental conservation. The balance between sustainability, functionality, and design ensures that Kindergarten Kaumberg is not only an educational facility but also a public facility that represents shared values and expectations. A modern kindergarten design can still prioritize children's and the community's needs through spaces where learning, play, and growth are seamlessly intertwined. 

Kindergarten Kaumberg by Baukooperative (cr: David Schreyer)