Villa Duimelot day care centre sits amidst the trees on the premises of the Reinier de Graaf Hospital in Delft. The centre’s proximity to the hospital makes it easy for parents to bring and collect their children.
The abundance of daylight, natural materials, and smooth transitions between indoors and outdoors, create a pleasant environment for children, parents, and staff. Expansive spaces and a sense of calmness define the centre’s design.
Children have lots of space to dance, move around and play games. They are also involved in meal preparation, with a small kitchen situated in front of the central cooking space.
The use of natural materials stimulates the children's imagination. The panelling is of birch wood and the roof’s structural timber beams have been kept in full view. The many windows allow staff to look inside the different rooms, ensuring a secure and transparent environment.
The building unfolds like a four-leaf clover, creating a strong relationship between inside and outside. Spacious group rooms, a large patio garden and a studio space are situated around a central play area.
Its facade has a warm and open appearance, combining large windows with a cladding of Basra locus timber slats. The patio garden is arranged as an outdoor adventure with a special quiet area for babies.