Day care centre Diakonie Wolfsburg e.V.

The aim of the planning is to design a safe open space that is attractive for children and that meets the integrative requirements, the pedagogical concept of the facility (team processes EFC approach from Cath Arnold, sports day care center) as well as the different developmental stages of the children. The concept of the facility provides for the integration of senior citizens from the neighbourhood (senior citizens' home of the Diakonie) into the daily routine of the KITA. In the sports area this already takes place with very positive effects.
The main materials to be used are natural materials in combination with organic forms. The trees are to be preserved, which means a special orientation of the play equipment and its fall protection surfaces. The play elements shall accommodate all age groups of the facility, with toddler play (1-3 years) concentrated in the central interior space of the site near the building. For older children with a wider range of activities, the entire open space will be available. Existing play elements will be reused in the design to the extent that they meet current safety regulations.

The planning envisages a curved circular path (bobby car race track) within the site, which connects the respective functional areas of the open space with each other (sports area, swings, sand play area, climbing, etc.). In the central focal point of the site is a large sand play area with sandworks, baking tables, a play village, an island with footbridges and a water mud area, enclosed by large boulders and protected by a large shade sail. The play elements can also be reached and played on by wheelchair users via footbridges and platforms. Another smaller sand play area with slope slide, playhouse and baking table is located to the east in the direction of the parking lot. It is intended to equalize the pressure of use and allow for small group work.
Between the two sand play areas is the soccer arena with a spectator stand set into the embankment. This area is available for internal parties and events, directly adjacent to the building.
Two swings, a merry-go-round and bouncing elements are located in the rear area at the northern property line, so that crossings in the safety area of the play elements are avoided. The trampoline, bird's nest carousel and bird's nest swing are play elements suitable for wheelchair users.
The slope towards the neighbouring property will be incorporated into the children's play and movement sequences and in some sections will be drawn further into the site and modelled. In some sections, the slope is supported by blocks, in others it is provided with balancing and climbing beams as well as two slope slides. The highest points are equipped as vantage points, creating spaces for children to retreat and observe, which are essential for such a large facility.
In the southern extension area of the site, a climbing castle facility is being created in conjunction with the slope. This facility is wheelchair accessible in some areas. Different ascending, descending and connecting elements enable the children to play on the facility according to their individual physical development stages (easy - challenging). The focus of the facility is on the experience of heights and distances, combined with overcoming one's own insecurities and fears.