adam wiercinski uses container frames and grid to build modular kids city

adam wiercinski uses container frames and grid to build modular kids city 
all images courtesy of adam wiercinski architecture

polish architect adam wiercinski used recycled container frames and grid organization to build ‘kids city’, a modular kindergarten. the school functions like a small town, including elements such as a main street, alleys, and connected common spaces with scattered houses between them. although container frames are the basic module for the ‘city’, appearance was dictated by how children typically imagine buildings–small ‘cottages’ with sloping roofs. 

open garden spaces are placed throughout the building

the entire structure is compiled of individual branches. a single branch is designed for 25 children and has 95m² of floor area. the unit contains a multi-purpose room, toilets, changing quarters, technical room and storage space. on the plot, in addition to the four children’s branches are several other ‘cottages’ including: administrative offices, kitchen facilities, and an exercise room. these buildings remain visually differentiated from the childrens’ buildings by a different roof shape and façade materials. they resemble factories, rather than huts, and are arranged in rows at the entrance to the property. supplies and visiting parents must enter through an adult unit, and may only access the children through a staff monitored door. 

a main corridor–street–connects individual branches and buildings

open spaces of the complex are filled with terraces and gardens with greenhouses and crops, where children learn basic ecology. during breaks, they can play on the playground or participate in performances on the ‘city’s’ stage. childrens’ branches are connected by the hall–street– area, which aside from movement also provides additional floor space. 

interior of childrens’ branch

container frames are organized in a two-story grid with three specific frame sizes. different sizing and modularity allows the possibility of any variable building arrangement, adapted to the needs and developments in the school. the complex totals 1770m², including 940m² floor area, which can be arbitrarily increased or decreased. 

children ideas dictated the shape of the unit 

 
construction stages

axonometry

orthographic floor plan 

elevations of the complex

sectional

designboom has received this project through its ‘DIY submissions’ feature, which welcomes readers to submit their own work for publication. see more designboom readers submissions here.