The reconstruction of two abandoned Soviet-era kindergartens in Novosibirsk rethinks the relationship between educational space, building regulations and children’s freedom to explore. The proposal by Inessa Garder, Vitaliy Zotov and Mariya Salo won the municipal competition and was built as a city tender project.
A glazed gallery connects the two buildings into one functional whole. Shared administrative, utility and medical facilities reduce duplication, releasing more space for educational, sporting and recreational activities. Eight interconnected play areas allow children to choose activities while remaining connected to one another.
Glass blocks introduce light, colour and texture while maintaining required separation. Safe translucent polycarbonate sliding panels support flexible group spaces and provide surfaces for drawing. Numbered modular storage makes toys and materials visible and accessible, encouraging children to organise their surroundings.
Rest is integrated into a soft landscape of cushions and platforms. Along the window wall, nature-inspired panels evoke sand, sun, grass, water and air. Together, these interventions turn a regulated interior into a setting for imagination, autonomy and a sense of belonging.
Architects: Inessa Garder, Vitaliy Zotov and Mariya Salo. Project imagery and drawings supplied by Inessa Garder.
