Situated in the gateway location of Auckland’s burgeoning Northwest is the purpose-built early learning centre in Taupaki, Kumeu. Positioned to capture the demand for childcare within a residential catchment the centre accommodates for 120 children ranging from 3 months to 6 years, providing specialised and distinctive rooms for the growth and development of young minds.

Sited within the rural setting the single-level building covers a lettable area of 818 sqm, including 185 sqm of decks and shared canopy spaces. An additional expansive ground of 1397 sqm of sealed driveway and car parking provides ample child drop off and collection.

The idyllic country setting played a crucial role in the project, where New Zealand vernacular architecture is reflected with a barn-like design, which is both traditional and modern. Presenting a sense of belonging, the striking gable roof form reflects a rural and homely feel, which the wider community can identify with. The imitation of a warm and inviting home base is enhanced through the selection of vertical timber cladding and aluminium roofing.

Internally, the arrangement of classrooms has been divided into 5 sizeable zones, linked with seamless indoor and outdoor flow. Each classroom is connected to the luscious outdoor playground, which engages children in a range of nature inspired play structures and landscaped patches for exploration and discovery.

Orientated to maximise natural daylight, the childcare centre incorporates extensive floor to ceiling sliding doors and windows, which also allow for passive heating and cooling strategies. Visual connectivity to the outdoors further enhances the child’s indoor learning experience.

Custom designed cabinetry is implemented throughout the design to ensure that every space is well-considered and woven together cohesively. The main reception desk was inspired by the local agricultural production of wine, with a suggestive barrel-like form.

Facts + Figures

Client: Kumeu Property Ltd
Location: Taupaki, Kumeu, New Zealand

Construction cost: Confidential
Area: 818m²
Programme: Completed 2020

Project Team: Phil Smith,
Yolande Kromhout, James Browning

Construction: Cassidy Construction
Landscape Design: David Lowry
Landscape Build: New Tech Builders Ltd
Interiors: Cabtec Ltd

Image Credit: Joe Hockley