Connected kid-friendly interiors for a childcare centre in Hobart, Tasmania.
Just east of Hobart overlooking Frederick Henry Bay, a former Department of Education centre was in need of a modern redesign. We collaborated with childcare providers Lady Gowrie, as we did with their South Hobart space, to create more structured, thoughtful interiors for their new childcare centre. Our design gently welcomes children and creates a flexible space that allows staff to offer adaptable, imaginative care.
CLIENT
Lady Gowrie Tasmania
IMAGES
Adam Gibson
LAND OF
muwinina
COLLABORATORS
Playstreet
Aldanmark
COVA
WT Partnership
AWARDS
The existing space hadn't been altered since it was built. It was a typical institution building from the sixties, made from reddy-orange brick, grey concrete blocks and plenty of timber. Though the site has stunning views, high-level windows didn’t make the most of them.
Rather than start from scratch, our design makes the most of the existing structure by reinvigorating and reusing what we can, leaning on the natural material palette. New child-height windows now make the most of that connection to the water.
Retain, reuse, renew
Playful meets practical
A free-standing geometric element will be a key way we’ll breathe new life into the space while keeping the broader integrity intact. As well as being an interesting feature in the room, this element allows staff to create flexible zones within the larger space.
We’ve been both playful and practical with finishes. Colourful perspex sits alongside glass. Soft carpet amongst easy-to-clean vinyl creates small moments within the larger space. With a focus on enhancing what’s already there, we upgraded the glazing, insulation and roofing. The timber details around the space create a warm, tactile feeling while window seats connect the interior play spaces to the water beyond.
We wanted to create a welcoming space that would immediately ease any anxiety children feel when they leave their parent's side at the start of the day. Instead of entering one large, overwhelming room, we've designed a dedicated entrance full of colour and playful elements to engage children on arrival, pique their interest about what lies ahead and make the transition to saying goodbye to parents feel quieter and calmer.
We’ve divided what was once a bare space into different zones, like an indoor play space, a wet area for craft and dining, and a quiet reading corner tucked away from noisy activity. A separate break room means carers can take some time for themselves, while still being able to observe activity in the garden.
Protecting and connecting
