The team at IPA - Architecture and more joined the project initiated by the For Our Children Foundation and Sofia Municipality, contributing not only professional knowledge and expertise but also a strong personal commitment. In renovating the former St. Sofia medical and social care home and transforming it into a contemporary early childhood development complex, the main goal was not only to create a comfortable, calm, and protected environment, but also to introduce warmth and care as integral elements of the architecture and design. The project forms part of the portfolio of IPA - Architecture and more in public buildings.
Using the purity of white and the warmth of yellow on the facade transformed not only the exterior appearance of the building but also the atmosphere it creates. What had previously felt strict and institutional was reshaped into a more welcoming environment expressing care and openness.
The outdoor space was completely renovated, with accessibility, safety, and opportunities for play and outdoor activities guiding the architectural design. The grounds include playgrounds with swings and climbing structures that encourage physical activity and are suitable for different age groups and children with disabilities, as well as a stage for performances with audience seating, a gazebo, and benches. Landscaped areas with shrubs and trees along the perimeter provide children with a direct connection to nature.
The functional organization and design of the interior spaces are based on contemporary services and methods for working with children with disabilities, children experiencing developmental difficulties, and families in vulnerable situations. The complex brings together five centers that work closely together and provide specialized support tailored to the needs of children and their parents.
The entrance lobby and the main centers are located on the ground floor. The basement level contains a hydrotherapy and rehabilitation center with accessible facilities for children with disabilities. Administrative spaces are located on the first floor, while the attic has been adapted as a residential area for guests of the foundation.
White is also the primary color in the interior design. It creates a sense of calm and openness while providing a neutral background for the colors introduced throughout the spaces. Soft shades of blue, green, yellow, orange, pink, and red turn the furniture and equipment into playful accents that encourage imagination, curiosity, learning, communication, and physical activity. The spaces create a sense of domestic comfort and security while also supporting the work of specialists, with layouts suitable for both individual and group activities.
In addition to spaces for direct work with children and families, the complex includes facilities for training prospective adoptive parents and foster families, as well as programs focused on violence prevention and developing parenting skills.
With professional commitment and care, IPA - Architecture and more supported the specialists working at the complex by creating an environment designed to contribute to children's emotional, intellectual, and physical development while respecting the project's specific requirements and defined budget.
