IPA – Architecture and more brought form and life to the municipal kindergarten Pinocchio in the Meden Rudnik district of Burgas. The building was designed with a sense of responsibility - functional, robust, comfortable, sustainable, and highly energy efficient. It is constructed entirely from ecological and recycled materials, with plastic completely eliminated. Wood is the primary material used throughout both the interior and exterior.
The project was developed with care and affection for the children, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment that supports their emotional and intellectual development. Every architectural idea and decision served a single purpose: to contribute to the upbringing of the children, to help shape them as individuals, and to be a small part of their happy days - and one day, their fond childhood memories.
Located in the central part of the neighbourhood, the kindergarten was funded through the Operational Programme “Regions in Growth.” The complex consists of three two-storey volumes in different colours, connected by a lower central structure that houses the main shared spaces. The building accommodates day rooms and sleeping areas, a kitchen unit with a sterilisation room, sanitary facilities attached to each day room, a library, a learning room, a sports and music hall, and various service areas.
Both the interior and exterior employ colours that stimulate child development and create a pleasant, calming atmosphere. Each zone is emphasised through a distinct colour palette. The facades of the taller volumes feature warm tones such as yellow and red, softened and complemented by wooden elements that provide shading while enhancing privacy within the interior.
The project promotes environmental awareness and healthy living as part of the educational process. The outdoor area is divided into several zones for educational play, allowing children to spend meaningful time outside. One of these areas includes a sensory path made from natural materials - pebbles, water, greenery, sand, and wood - encouraging children to explore through touch and movement. Another zone contains “musical boxes” made of metal, wood, and bamboo, enabling children to create and experiment with different sounds. Additional areas offer games like giant tic-tac-toe, drawing boards with various textures, and a water-play installation for observing and experimenting with water and its properties.
The inclusion of a rainwater irrigation system, a gas heating installation, and photovoltaic panels ensures not only low operating costs but also a decidedly “green” standard for the building. A metal structure with wooden louvers is positioned along the facades to provide additional solar shading, helping regulate indoor temperatures and improving overall energy efficiency.
For the team at IPA – Architecture and more, it was an honour to play a central role in this new chapter - a story that children, teachers, and parents will continue to write together.
