‘childcare center’ by MAGK + illiz architektur, maria enzersdorf, austria image © hertha hurnaus

a collaboration between austrian practice MAGK and illiz architektur, ‘childcare center’ is an elementary school and kindergarten in maria enzersdorf, austria. geometric windows and framed boxes projecting from the white surface create a dynamic envelope which contrasts the boldly colored pavement which encompass the building. the pixelated facade integrates playful colors to highlight special spaces for children including play areas and window box seats as well as architectural elements such as skylights, entrances, trash receptacles and special openings. circular benches proportioned for children are scattered around the complex, contributing to the lively atmosphere.

three large L’s interlock to form two open-air courtyards which are landscaped with trees and contain sandboxes for students. additional playspaces are found within the void between the screened facade, providing a flexible and permeable outdoor space in which young children may freely flow between inside to outside.

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf exterior image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf entrance image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf (left) entrance (right) facade is screened with a pixelated brise-soleilimage © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf (left) play area within screened facade (right) sliding door may be opened to allow children to play within the protected open air space image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf inner courtyard image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf aerial view of courtyard image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf upper level corridor image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf upper level corridor features color block elements image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf window box within the pixelated facade for children image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf play area image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf ground level entry image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf corridor image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf corridor with views to blue climbing wall image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf corridor image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf classroom image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf bathroom image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf bathroom image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf roof terrace image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf courtyard image © hertha hurnaus

MAGK + illiz architektur: childcare center, maria enzersdorf pixelated facade of windows image © hertha hurnaus