Description
Three dark pyramids define the silhouette of the new St. Georg Kindergarten in Frauenstein, an outskirt of Wiesbaden. The two-storey centre for 80 children consists of three equal volumes with truncated pyramid roofs fitted with photovoltaics. Set into the slope, the building blends naturally into the terrain, while light ribbon windows structure the dark timber façade.
On the entrance level are the crèche group, a multipurpose room, administration, and the kitchen. An open stair leads to the upper floor with three group rooms beneath the high pyramid roofs. Skylights draw daylight deep inside; generous heights, suspended play levels and simple built-ins create calm, varied spaces for play and retreat. Large glazed openings connect the rooms to the play garden, sheltered by a continuous canopy. The garden combines classic equipment with natural elements such as tree trunks and boulders to encourage exploratory play.
The centre is energy-efficient, using heat pumps with underfloor heating, roof-mounted photovoltaics for on-site electricity and rainwater cisterns for irrigation. The result is a sustainable, child-friendly building with a clear architectural identity.