New Shoots Early Childhood Centre, Greenhithe

This project transforms marginal land into an impressive and holistic learning environment for preschoolers— worthy of the 2021 NZIA New Zealand Architecture Award. Skilfully designed by Copeland Associates Architects and constructed by Peak Construction.  

Given the site's 'semi-rural' location that is full of arrayed native wetlands, these natural surroundings remained a focal point throughout the entirety of the project— providing a 'nature classroom' for 100 young children. The overall design of this early childhood education centre (ECEC) is different from others— it includes three separate buildings: Toddlers & Staff, Infants, and Preschoolers. The three buildings are configured to create a triangular courtyard that captures the sun. The entry to the centre is via a timber bridge, over a significant ecological landscape, where planting will provide habitats for lizards and nesting birds, as well as learning opportunities for children.