Earlier this year I visited the children’s day care centre that my sister runs in Haarlem, The Netherlands. The Teddyzolder (teddy attic) is a nursery and after school club inspired by the principles of Reggio Emilia. This approach puts the natural development of children at the centre of its philosophy, as well as the close relationships that they share with their environment.

The nursery aims to provide a homely environment, as it believes that when staff and parents feel at home, children will feel at home quicker too and thrive. It’s a comfortable and inviting space, thoughtfully designed to stimulate interaction and communication, whilst also offering children the opportunity to find a quiet nook and spend some time by themselves.

The spaces are organised in open areas for energetic play and lots of movement, and smaller zones or ‘corners’ where children can retreat and experience different atmospheres. There are corners for quiet reading, crafting, building, playing ‘house’, a dolls corner, dressing up room and a mini theatre with a stage, to name a few.

Through the use of materials and colours, the centre has created a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is a long way away from the “institutional” design, or lack of interior design, that I’ve seen at many day nurseries. I love the bright, cheerful colours, bunches of artificial flowers everywhere, large colourful lamp shades, bold wallpaper, and layers of differently patterned curtains. I would love to design a day nursery – so if you’re hiring…  drop me a line! ; )

(images: room to bloom)