Completed in 2022 by Studio Anva in St. Albert, Alberta, and led by interior architect Alyssa Anselmo, this 10,000-square-foot facility adopts a holistic approach to creating nurturing environments for children. As the second project Alyssa has designed for the Bambini Learning Group, her solo venture, Studio Anva, demonstrates the profound impact of architecture on early childhood development.
Bambini Holistic Childcare Center Technical Information
- Architects: Studio Anva
- Location: St. Albert, Alberta, Canada
- Topics: Architecture for Children
- Area: 10,000 ft2 | 930 m2
- Completion Year: 2022
- Photographs: © Alyssa Anselmo
The central challenge of the project was to build a dream space where children could thrive, a space that would be remembered well into their adulthood.
– Alyssa Anselmo
Bambini Holistic Childcare Center Photographs
A Vision of Biophilic Harmony
Embracing the Reggio Emilia philosophy, Alyssa embarked on a journey to design a space that transcends traditional daycare aesthetics. The center’s design harmoniously blends high ceilings, abundant natural light, and an emphasis on biophilic elements that foster a deep connection with nature. Alyssa’s choice of light materials and an open-concept layout further amplifies this ethos, creating an environment where children are encouraged to explore and engage with their surroundings.
At the core of the childcare center is the “piazza,” an innovative space inspired by the concept of an indoor courtyard. Here, mindfulness and yoga take center stage, surrounded by over 1000 birch wooden slats and bathed in light from above through skylights. The inclusion of a 12-foot Ficus Benjamina tree and an 8-foot cloud installation imbues the area with a sense of wonder. At the same time, a sunken conversation pit offers a sanctuary for children to dream and reflect.
Materiality with Meaning
Alyssa’s meticulous attention to materials ensures that every element within the space contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere. Concrete and birch plywood not only offer durability but also evolve with time, mirroring the growth and development of the children themselves. The nuanced palette of cream walls, soft green accents, and a bespoke beige concrete floor further softens the space, steering away from the sterile aesthetics often found in institutional settings.
Cultivating Creativity and Convenience
The childcare center boasts an “Art Atelier,” equipped with large arched windows and an array of plants, creating an inspiring space for children to express their creativity. Practical innovations, such as mini kitchens and bathrooms integrated into each classroom, exemplify Alyssa’s commitment to ergonomic design, facilitating a seamless daily routine for both children and educators.
Bambini Holistic Childcare Center Image Gallery
About Studio Anva
Founded in 2021 by Alyssa Anselmo, Studio Anva specializes in creating spaces that marry functionality with a distinct sense of hospitality. With a commitment to meticulous planning and precision detailing, Studio Anva handles every aspect of the design process in-house, from initial schematics to 3D renderings and the final reveal. The studio is known for its unique approach to design, emphasizing thoughtful creation and the seamless integration of graphic elements to craft spaces that resonate deeply with those who inhabit them.
