Set in Dwerkaten, a district of Lütjensee in Schleswig-Holstein, this newly completed kindergarten brings together ecological building practices, pedagogical innovation, and a thoughtful integration into the site's natural topography. Built on an undeveloped plot within an industrial area, the highest point of the gently sloping terrain rewards with sweeping views across the rolling landscape. These vistas—and the slope itself—became the defining inspirations for Jan Braker Architekt's initial design concept.

The design placed group rooms along the gently sloped terrain, opening onto unobstructed views of the landscape, while service areas face the industrial zone. Between these two zones sits a generous multi-purpose space at the building's core. This concept was approved without revision—a testament to its clarity. The resulting semi-circular structure settles naturally into the site's topography. Large windows in the group rooms ensure children stay connected to nature throughout the day. The wraparound terrace and wooden pergola extend the interior spaces outward while providing crucial shade—it has become a favorite track for children's vehicles. Aligned with both the verdant setting and the operator's nature-based pedagogy, the Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund selected timber frame construction with a cross-laminated timber roof shell. While the foundation was being laid for the nearly 1,000 m² building, the entire timber structure was prefabricated off-site and assembled on location. Above the central hall, the roof rises dramatically, creating a skylight that floods the space with natural light and allows for natural ventilation. Horizontal larch wood slats form the exterior envelope, pre-bent and fastened progressively on-site. Aluminum panels clad the roof, following its gentle radial slope. A photovoltaic system and air-source heat pump provide sustainable energy. Inside, every detail reflects the needs of children ages one to six, divided into six groups. The semi-open design maximizes children's autonomy and choice. The 200 m² central hall functions as a movement space, directly supporting the pedagogical emphasis on physical development. The interior palette is restrained—carefully curated furnishings provide subtle accents. The lighting design was realized in close collaboration with the local electrical contractor. In 2024, the nursery received the Special Award from the Schleswig-Holstein and Hamburg Timber Construction Prize for public buildings.

www.janbraker.de

Photos:
Jakob Börner
www.jakobboerner.com

(Published in CUBE Hamburg 03|25)