Forfatterhuset Kindergarten / COBE

Architects: COBE
Area: 1,950 m²
Year: 2014
Photography: Adam Mørk, Rasmus Hjortshõj
Contractor: Kjær & Lassen
Landscape Architect: PK3
Engineer: D.A.I. Arkitekter Ingeniører
Design Team: Andy Minchev, Caroline Krogh Andersen, Chloé Blain, Christina Matos, Dan Stubbergaard, Eik Bjerregaard, Elin Parry, Gabrielle Ubareviciute, Greta Tiedje, Jens Kert Wagner, Kato Hiroshi, Magnus Meulengracht, Martin Jonsbak Nielsen, Martin Laustsen, Michal Kniaz, Tobias Mürsch.
Client: City of Copenhagen
City: Copenhagen
Country: Denmark

Forfatterhuset Kindergarten in Copenhagen, designed by COBE and opened in 2014, offers a modern educational environment within a historic district. The project, developed in collaboration with PK3 landscape architects and D.A.I. engineers, features five compact houses with vertical brick facades and green roofs. This thoughtful design bridges traditional and contemporary architecture while fostering a child-friendly village atmosphere that supports creativity and learning.

The kindergarten project, which originated from a competition won by COBE in 2012, showcases an innovative approach to educational architecture by integrating sustainable features with a compact, community-focused layout.

The design aims to create a world-class daycare center, providing an environment that promotes learning and creativity. Located in a historic area dominated by nursing homes and senior housing, the project balances the need for cohesion with its context and the opportunity to introduce a contrasting element.

The kindergarten integrates seamlessly into its surroundings by reflecting the area’s red brick architecture. Its façade is crafted from vertical brick lamellae, which form a continuous band connecting the structures, enclosing the garden and playground, and offering solar shading. This approach offers both aesthetic and functional benefits, working as a fence for the playground and protection at rooftop gardens. The cohesive design reflects the traditional character of the neighborhood while introducing a contemporary interpretation.

The complex consists of five compact buildings ranging from one to three stories, all featuring green roofs and rooftop gardens. Externally, the kindergarten resembles a small village for children, while internally it operates as an interconnected and efficient space. This layout creates a stimulating yet practical environment, fostering excitement and functionality for children and staff alike.

The project exemplifies the delicate balance of respecting historical surroundings while introducing innovative architecture, contributing to Copenhagen’s urban fabric with a fresh and creative perspective.