Revolutionizing Early Education: The 21st Century Kindergarten

Sarit Shani Hay's Innovative Design Transforms a Former Market into a Vibrant Learning Space

Design inspiration often emerges from the most unexpected sources. For Sarit Shani Hay, the history of the site and the city of Tel Aviv sparked the creative process for the 21st Century Kindergarten project. The site’s past as a wholesale market and storage facility became a recurring theme in the design strategy, with kindergartens themed around fruits, vegetables, and market life. The main lobby's orange theme was even inspired by a classic Israeli children's book. The aim was to create an educational environment that promotes play and nurtures a child’s desire to explore and experience.

What sets this project apart is the innovative planning and design of the space. The complex includes six kindergartens and three daycares, each with their own identity but united as one collective space. The communal lobby functions as an imaginative gathering area, featuring a large wooden interactive wall comprised of nooks shaped as oranges in different geometrical shapes, inviting children to sit, rest or play.

The design realization of each kindergarten was dictated by the fruits or vegetables identified with it, which served as a design code and gave rise to its color scheme and components. The materials chosen, including stainproof upholstery fabrics and natural wood, were particularly durable to maintain the appearance and cleanliness of different spaces in the complex over time. All the furniture and objects were custom made, using the most advanced CNC technologies and raw materials such as plywood and solid wood.

Despite the challenges of creating an innovative learning space that caters to the children's needs while considering the building requirements and the needs of the community, the project was successfully completed in 2017. The design took into account both the pedagogical needs and the desire to promote a friendly playful setting, offering hands-on activity and a lasting experience. This 21st century educational complex promotes learning through enjoyment and imaginative play.

The 21st Century Kindergarten project is a testament to Sarit Shani Hay's innovative design philosophy. It's not surprising that this project was awarded Silver in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2018. This recognition is a testament to the project's outstanding expertise and innovation, and its ability to introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.