Work submitted for the competition
"Best Diploma Architecture"
Maria Montessori is the author of the pedagogical theory used worldwide, based on encouraging the child to discover the world independently — by playing, testing, experiencing. The essence of the designed public facility — the Development House — intended for children, is primarily of a nature to stimulate their intellectual, as well as social-emotional development.
View from Lenartowicza Street
© Maja Kędra
Montessori created a popular toy, which is still used today. It is like a code that the whole world understands — a set of ten pink wooden cubes, starting with a 1×1×1 centimeter block and ending with a 10×10×10 centimeter block. Each cube is 1 centimeter larger in all dimensions than the previous one. Doesn't this sound like a very "architectural" toy?
typology of pavilions
© Maja Kędra
The designed facility consists of ten pavilions (they start with a dimension of 1×1×1 meter and end with 10×10×10 meters). Each of them has a different function, in line with Montessori principles. Since an important point of them is spending time outdoors, outdoor plazas are assigned to the pavilions, which are a development, a continuation of the interiors. Each building has its own interior and exterior.
plans
© Maja Kędra
The pavilions are situated in a garden with a mysterious character. Amidst the plants, various toys, resting places and attractions await children. In addition, on the facades of the buildings, there are attractors that engage or entertain their users. The pavilions are connected to each other by a covered "street".
cross-section A-A and B-B
© Maja Kędra
The facility is located in Warsaw, in the upper part of Mokotów. It is adjacent to an elementary school and a kindergarten, and complements these facilities. It creates a new quality of public space for children, being something between a day care center and a community center. It encourages its users to explore the world and make human connections, especially in such strange, pandemic times.
view from Tyniecka Street
© Maja Kędra
Maja KĘDRA
Illustrations: © Author
