Projects

Little Blue Penguin

Little Blue Penguin Preschool and Nursery

This project involved designing and constructing an outdoor learning environment that catered to children from babies to age 6.

Key Words:

Homely, natural, garden, learning environment

Location:

Bishopdale, Christchurch

Year:

2018

Worked with:

Laing Homes

Unique to this project:

  • Mixed-age: This project involved designing and constructing an outdoor learning environment that catered to children from babies to age 6. We created a range of areas to accommodate the varying developmental stages of each age group.
  • Deck: This project embraced curves and our clients encouraged us to stay away from straight lines. We constructed a deck that encompassed the natural boulders to create an interesting and inviting space for the children to explore.

Challenges

  • Regulations: Early Childhood learning environments are required to meet a multitude of New Zealand Standards. This playground needed to be challenging and exciting for children, while still meeting the range of safety standards
  • Budget: This project was for a small preschool and nursery with a strict budget.
  • Small space: We needed to utilize all of the outdoor space.

Successes

  • This playground passed the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education inspections with no issues.
  • The handrails: We hand-crafted safety handrails from Manuka. This met the necessary safety standards while keeping in line with the natural, homely vibe of the early learning centre.
  • On time and on budget: We completed this project on time, ensuring the early learning center could meet it’s licensing requirements and open on time.
  • We created a unique playground that is desired and sought after in its industry.