Kindergarten in Prangins. Switzerland

The relationship to the sloping location, which was developed out of the villa made of prefabricated modules and led to additional volumes, had a strong infl uence on the conception of this project. The new Prangins kindergarten is conceived as one big house that has been placed on a sloping property.

The cruciform shape resulting from the interlocking volumes allows it to have a special relationship with the neighbouring ensemble. The four volumes, which are mutually staggered by a third of each unit’s fl oor height and interleaved, make the building appear to be smaller and visually less obtrusive.

The six classrooms organised in groups of two occupy the three lower volumes. Due to its central location, the staircase is a fundamental element of the kindergarten. The ramps that accompany it provide parallel access and act as an internal entrance to the crèche. The volume of the crèche, which is placed perpendicular to the fi rst wing, marks and covers the entrance area of the kindergarten. Direct access to the upper part of the property also enables independent operation of the crèche. The crèche fl oor plan consists of a large (dining) room, which can be divided into several smaller units according to requirements. The natural qualities of the location are highlighted by the diff erent alignment of the large window openings. The reinforced concrete that is visible both inside and outside, anchors the building into the topography.