The design proposal for the Aurinkokivi School competition in Vantaa, Finland by Rudanko + Kankkunen was recently awarded a purchase prize for its inspiring architecture and child-friendly spaces. The concept is simple yet fresh: traditional gabled building wings meet and form a surprising composition at the heart of the building. The building is mostly on one level and can be realized with repeating construction elements. It is designed to be inexpensive to build, yet highly fresh and inviting. More images and architects’ description after the break.
The wings are the home areas the kindergarten and school, and the central spaces are the venue for common activities, sports and arts and spontaneous learning. In the wings, each children group has their own home entrance, group work lobby, and flexible classrooms or playrooms around it. Every wing opens up towards a green courtyard. Art and self-motivated learning are present both in the school’s curriculum and the architecture.
