Kindergarten at Kreuzfeld School Center

An Orchard and the Flowerpot

The kindergarten in the orchard stands as a symbol for a sustainable and nature-oriented future. Every apple that falls onto the old meadow orchard in Kreuzfeld carries within it the seed for future fruits and a garden of tomorrow – an ecosystem for plants, animals, and children. That is why we aim to preserve the existing fruit trees on the site and make them the starting point for the kindergarten’s concept, its architectural and landscape design, as well as its overall atmosphere.

The garden is inclusive, healthy, and egalitarian. Surrounded by greenery, the children experience the cycle of nature up close. By observing insects, birds, flowers, and fruit varieties, they learn to respect, protect, and live in harmony with nature.

The building floats above the ground. No extensive earthworks are necessary, and the terrain is disturbed as little as possible, with the new structure partially adopting the footprint of the existing pavilions.

The roof is extensively greened and functions like a large “flowerpot,” with a meadow and insect hotels. The flowerpot symbolizes safe growth and nurturing care, until both plants and children are grown.

Only natural materials are used throughout (timber construction, wood cladding, clay plaster, straw insulation), which can largely be sourced and built locally. The result is a house without concrete and with a minimal use of plastics. Air and light flow freely through the building, combining natural materials to create a healthy indoor climate.