Daycare Jona and the Whale by D:4 Architektur

The two-story timber building accommodates 70 children, with a special focus on kids on the autism spectrum. The architecture translates this pedagogical approach into five spatial principles: A polygonal floor plan structures orientation from large to small spaces, exposed timber elements enhance tactile perception, a color code organizes play and retreat areas in calming greens and blues, sound-absorbing ceiling panels create acoustic comfort and custom-made furniture offers protected retreat spaces in every room.

Open foyers replace corridors as social and communicative hubs. Fully barrier-free, the building ensures equal access and the opportunity for every child to develop freely, for all. Conceived as a circular construction, the timber structure is fully demountable and reusable, while the green roof contributes to the local microclimate. Large windows and skylights provide balanced daylight throughout. A natural garden extends learning into the outdoors, encouraging exploration and connection to nature. The project exemplifies sustainable, inclusive, and child-centered architecture.