Wandana Child and Parent Centre
The design has been developed around a language which crosses all cultures, play.
The Wandana Child and Parent Centre at Gilles Plains, opens the site to local community and families from multiple ethnic backgrounds. With minimal private open space offering for young families within this school area, often families haven’t the space to gather, nor the play opportunities. Wandana Child Parent Centre provides this opportunity whilst connecting with local community.
The design response has been developed around a language which crosses all cultures, play. Language, communication and interaction can occur in many forms; dance, play, singing, art, literature and performance, to name a few. With a culturally diverse community network, it is important for Wandana’s outdoor space to speak to children in many forms.
Throughout the outdoor space, language is weaved throughout to create an experience special to the Wandana Child Parent Centre. The word ‘Welcome’ has been stamped in multiple languages within the concrete path which surrounds the outdoor space, connecting each outdoor room. Children have identified with their own language, making them feel more connected with their space. Vegetable gardens, climbing trees, mud pits and outdoor kitchen have all been incorporated into the outdoor learning area, providing spaces which can connect to children from different backgrounds.