Contemporary and welcoming, yet deeply ecological and sustainable – these guiding principles shaped thelenarchitekten's design for Märchenwald, a new daycare facility in Haan. Since December 2020, around 70 to 80 children have discovered their second home here, cared for by a dedicated team of 15 educators. Architecturally, the two-storey structure steps gracefully along Ohligser Straße, composed of staggered volumes of varying heights that create a compelling rhythm in the urban landscape. This carefully articulated composition is further refined through diverse window proportions and a thoughtful colour palette applied across the distinct building forms.

Because children spend substantial time at the facility and deserve an environment where they truly thrive, the design of the interior atmosphere is paramount. To this end, a cohesive and inviting colour and material scheme creates a warm, welcoming environment both indoors and out. Abundant natural light – from generous windows and skylights on the upper floor – floods the interiors with vitality. Low-positioned, floor-to-ceiling windows invite children to gaze freely across the outdoor spaces and into the surrounding woodland. This seamless visual connection between interior and exterior not only enhances the quality of the spaces but also helps children intuitively navigate the building.

The building accommodates four distinct classroom groups, each with its own group room, support space, flexible learning area, sanitary facilities, and cloakroom. Additional amenities include staff offices, a kitchen, rest areas, and utility spaces. Interior spaces are thoughtfully composed with colour and child-scale design, using high-contrast finishes that guide movement while meeting universal accessibility standards. Rooms on both levels are organised around generous play corridors – vibrant social hubs for children and families alike. The site includes a sheltered pram storage area, dedicated parking for staff and visitors (including accessible spaces), and bicycle facilities. The landscape design features a climbing garden nestled within the existing woodland, carefully integrated with the mature tree stock. Throughout, the quality of materials – both inside and out – communicates the building's inherent value and invites children to feel genuinely at home at Märchenwald.

www.thelenarchitekten.de

Photography Credits:

Andreas Wiese
www.fotografie-wiese.de

(Published in CUBE Cologne Bonn 03|22)