to take it through to its implementation stage . Miles says the existing fit-out for a hospitality suite was not only very dated , with a low ceiling and divided into small rooms , it also had particular challenges to overcome .
“ The original tower went up in the 1980s , behind a heritage facade , and the proposed child centre sat across the two buildings ,” she says . “ So there was a level change in the middle of the space .”
And while the outdoor deck was an obvious boon , there was no easy access to it in the original configuration .
“ But having a facility like this so close to the city centre was attractive and the old building had a lovely feel that would make it comfortable for children .”
Lyn Creagh ’ s overarching requirement was that the centre should feel like a home . Contributing to this is Moller ’ s decision to lower the ceiling space in the toddler ’ s play area , bringing it down to more of a child ’ s scale .
Taking a child-centric approach is fundamental to Darren Engelbrecht ’ s design philosophy .
“ Children need a series of different spaces ,” he says . “ There should be quiet , protected spaces away from the circulation paths as well as busy spaces . Some spaces should open , and others
These pages : Designer Darren Engelbrecht of Naturally Wood has created a stimulating environment for children of different ages , while at the same time accommodating the workspace needs of the centre ’ s staff . search | save | share at