Konkursy architektoniczne

Czerwiec 23, 2025

Beyond the Classroom: ECD Design Competition

Data końca rejestracji: 31/07/2025

Termin składania prac: 31/07/2025

Data zakończenia: 30/08/2025

Kraj: Południowa Afryka

In July 2024, with support from the University of Nottingham (UK), experts in early childhood development, architectural education, and construction gathered at Education Africa in Johannesburg to explore solutions to South Africa’s preschool infrastructure crisis. Inspired by innovative student-built projects from the University of Nottingham and Nelson Mandela University, and informed by NPOs like the Thušanang Trust and Umncedi, they proposed an international design competition.

From this collaboration the Beyond the Classroom Design Competition was born. This competition is for a modular, adaptable, and aspirational preschool design appropriate to the social, environmental, and financial context of South Africa. The Design should also be cost-effective as competition partners are seeking to construct the winning proposal In conjunction with Education Africa’s - Social Architecture Project during 2026, serving as a prototype for the cost-effective development of high-quality preschool infrastructure in the future.

A well-designed ECD centre is more than just a building, it is a space that nurtures young minds and provides a foundation for lifelong learning. However, across South Africa, many ECD facilities operate in inadequate conditions, from overcrowded backyard informal structures, or makeshift classrooms with limited resources. While efforts have been made to improve ECD infrastructure, there remains a pressing need for up-to-standard, child-centred design solutions that create safe and inclusive environments for children and caretakers.

To function legally, ECD centres must meet the Norms and Standards for Early Childhood Development Programmes as outlined in the Children’s Act. This includes essential health and safety measures such as secure perimeters, emergency exits, fire prevention, proper sanitation, and access to clean drinking water. Beyond compliance, these spaces should be designed to support children’s holistic development, providing room for learning, rest, play, and interaction.

Children with disabilities must also be considered through inclusive design features such as ramps, sensory-friendly zones, and adaptive play equipment. Providing varied seating arrangements, quiet spaces for neurodiverse children, and flexible learning areas that ensure that every child feels supported and included.

Key facilities should include bright, well-ventilated classrooms, safe outdoor play areas, child-friendly toilets, and comfortable napping spaces. Staff also need dedicated work and relaxation areas to create a balanced learning environment. By designing ECD centres with these considerations in mind, we can create spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

More: https://www.nownowcompetition.com/#competition

Dodano: 23/06/2025

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