What an extraordinary setting for a nursery! Tucked within the monastery garden of this 17th-century Franciscan cloister, a verdant sanctuary emerges in the heart of Miltenberg's historic centre. Just steps from Engelplatz, this cherished space breathes both sanctuary and history. bez+kock architects have masterfully woven a new single-storey wooden pavilion into the fabric of the ancient stone walls—its form held within a commanding red sandstone perimeter. The building's carefully calibrated volume divides the garden into two distinct realms: a protected play zone for the children, and a publicly accessible courtyard that honours the monastery's original purpose as a shared sanctuary for the townspeople.

The structure rises and falls gently with the land's natural slope, allowing the new building to nestle quietly into its historic surroundings. A continuous pergola spans both long facades, establishing a weather-sheltered threshold for play and gathering. The adjoining family centre unfolds around a verdant courtyard—the vital link between two worlds. The expansive multipurpose hall sits nearby, serving both nursery and family centre while commanding views of the entrance.
On the exterior, delicate vertical slats of silver fir soften the façades. Within, vibrant felt panels guide young explorers through the spaces. The rich textures of sandstone and timber transform the nursery into something you can feel—a building with soul. Generous skylights crown each group room entrance, casting enchanting daylight into the generous alcoves and cloakroom spaces.

The region's distinctive red sandstone—salvaged from the historic monastery wall—frames the interior with timeless character. Upper levels dissolve into transparency, wrapped only in light steel mesh. Each classroom features an integrated climbing structure that rises above the planted roof like a watchtower. These elevated retreats become magical hideaways, inviting children to dream, read, observe, and wonder while gazing toward the ancient monastery walls that stand sentinel nearby.

www.bez-kock.de

Photography Credits:

Stephan Baumann, bild_raum
www.bild-raum.com

(Published in CUBE Frankfurt 01|23)