The Montessori Child Center De Schatkaart is located on the main square of Centrumeiland (IJburg), a young neighborhood that is architecturally distinguished by a high degree of self-construction. With a split-level design of four floors BDG Architecten made optimal use of the cramped plot, which has a height difference of more than one meter. This design creates a rich play-learning environment that, as a spatial translation of the principles of De Schatkaart, offers maximum space for education, meeting and exercise and fits seamlessly with the cross-group work of Montessori education. The child center also feels small-scale due to the semi-staggered floors.
Stepped landscape with a strong central heart
Vides and a stepped landscape give MKC De Schatkaart a strong central heart. With extensive internal connections between the floors and learning domains, BDG Architecten facilitated a smooth transition from care to education. An atrium spreads daylight through the relatively deep building block. Suitable for cross-group teaching, the duo classrooms on the corners with transparent sliding walls are easy to connect. Loggias also ensure a pleasant and direct relationship with the outside on the floors. The high sports hall on the top floor is accessible via stairwells on either side of the child center. This really makes it a facility for the new neighborhood.
Climate-proof resting point between self-build plots
The child center is built in steps towards the tree-lined square of the main square.The building has an urban facade with a masonry frame and materials with a warm appearance. The split-level design is visible in the staggered windows and composition of the side facade, with which the child center connects with the various housing typologies around it. With the split-level design BDG Architecten created space for a semi-sunken bicycle cellar and a roof terrace where education can continue in the fresh air. And that's nice in a city where (outdoor) space is scarce. Moreover, as a fifth facade, it adds value to the environment. The installations have been installed indoors out of sight from the local residents. The Brazilian masonry behind which the technical systems are located ensures ventilation and gives character to the building. The child center is rainproof: the surplus of rainwater is drained via shafts onto infiltration crates under the tree-lined square. With the design for De Schatkaart BDG Architecten not only contributes to optimal well-being of the users, but also to a climate-proof city.
Team:
Architect: BDG Architecten
Photography: Frank Hanswijk Fotografie
