Architect：LIAG architects

Location：Sassenheim, Netherlands; | ;View Map

Project Year：2024

Category：Primary Schools;Secondary Schools

Het Sterrenwerk Child Center in Sassenheim provides children the space to flourish and grow, allowing them to face the future with confidence. Thanks to LIAG, the ambition of this merged school and childcare center has become a reality. The result is a high-quality, healthy building where everyone feels at home, students perform optimally, and teachers experience less stress.

Situated in a 1980s Vinex neighborhood, Het Sterrenwerk immediately catches the eye of passersby. Although the sand-colored brick blends with the surroundings, the two-story new building clearly serves a special purpose. The variation in color nuances and brickwork patterns emphasizes the social character of this building, while its robust appearance suits its function. It clearly communicates: this child center provides a safe home for every child.

“The shape of the building appears simple, but we have managed to make the facade distinctive. The brickwork aligns with the surrounding houses. Through an abstract play of surfaces and necessary refinements in execution, the building stands out while also showcasing its function.” Thomas Bögl, LIAG architects and engineers 

A building with two faces

The location of this child center is unique. It is surrounded by roads and waterways, which have influenced the architecture. A spacious, cantilevered floor extending across the entire length defines the appearance of the facade facing the street. This offers children and parents protection from sun and rain in the schoolyard and creates a transition between the outside dynamic and the inner calm. At the back of the building, there is a setback. This gradual elevation, combined with the use of natural materials and organic shapes, fits well with the green environment. It creates a sheltered space for the youngest children and a rooftop terrace with a view for the older students.

Custom-made for children

The layout of the child center follows the continuous learning path, seamlessly integrating childcare and education. Each age group has its own recognizable and intuitive place within the building. The design of each cluster matches the experience and scale appropriate for each age group. While the environment for the youngest children is very sheltered both indoors and outdoors, the environment for older children gradually opens up. Although each subsequent cluster appears more spacious, the child center retains an intimate feel. This structure quickly makes students feel at home. Rounded shapes, natural materials, pastel colors, and abundant daylight give the interior a homely atmosphere.

"I am happy, but above all extremely proud that the building has turned out exactly as we hoped. The abundance of light and space fulfills a long-cherished wish.” director, Het Sterrenwerk Child Center  

A multifunctional heart

At the heart of this child center is a striking centerpiece and multifunctional piece of furniture: a bamboo sculpture that serves as a reception desk, kitchen, storage space, and staircase — all in one. It functions as a meeting point where people can come together. At the same time, it serves as an orientation point. This social heart connects all the clusters, the playground on the ground floor, and the learning areas on the upper floor. The versatility of this element offers countless possibilities for the use of the central space.

“The shelter is great for the youngest children, while the open and larger spaces are ideal for the older students to make their own. The group rooms embrace the learning and play areas, ensuring they are always in view and designed to have a calming effect on the children.” Mart Bremer, LIAG architects and engineers  

Team:

Architects: LIAG Architects

Photography: Lucas van der Wee

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