Modern Nursery Design Switzerland: Nursery Ried-Brig by COMAMALA ISMAIL

Nestled in the picturesque village of Ried-Brig, Switzerland, the Nursery Ried-Brig by COMAMALA ISMAIL exemplifies modern nursery design in Switzerland. This architectural marvel seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, providing an innovative solution to the village's urban planning challenges.

Context and Urban Integration

Ried-Brig is a small village along the Simplon Pass road, connecting the Canton of Valais in Switzerland with Italy. Despite its natural urban expansion, the village has retained its historic charm. The project site, situated at the entrance of the historic city center, includes the village school premises, a parking lot, and a sports facility building. These elements, developed over years of successive interventions, lacked clear order and identity. COMAMALA ISMAIL aimed to resolve these issues, creating a new urban identity through strategic interventions.

Architectural Concept

The project introduces a "New Village Square," from which a series of footpaths guide users through various levels, organizing the Community House, School Extension, and Nursery. Each building boasts a unique architectural expression, reflecting their direct relationship with existing structures and sports facilities. The Nursery, positioned at the higher sector of the plot to the east, maintains an appropriate distance from the rest of the school complex.

Design and Structure

Dual Ground Levels

Utilizing the steep slope of the terrain, the Nursery features two ground levels:

• Street Level: This level houses the public entrance and the school restaurant.
• Lower Level: This level includes two kindergarten rooms with views of the pastures.

Safety and Functionality

Splitting the program into two floors elegantly addresses safety concerns typical of teaching facilities. The structure serves as a pivot, resolving the street corner and connecting directly with the neighboring sports facility.

Exterior Design

South Façade

The south façade, with its playful geometry, features two large windows that highlight the visual and spatial connection between the nursery and the stunning Swiss Alps.

North Façade

The north façade includes a door window running the length of the nursery, ensuring a natural connection between the classrooms and the playground.

Materials and Sustainability

The exterior façades are constructed from concrete, chosen for its durability and suitability for the high-altitude environment where snow is a significant consideration. In contrast, the interior features wood, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere for the children. Additionally, the single-pitched gable roof accommodates a rooftop solar power system, emphasizing the project's commitment to sustainability.

Interior Design

The interior of the Nursery Ried-Brig is designed with the comfort and well-being of the children in mind. Wooden elements dominate the space, providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. The use of natural light is maximized through strategically placed windows, ensuring bright and cheerful classrooms.

The Nursery Ried-Brig by COMAMALA ISMAIL is a stellar example of modern nursery design in Switzerland. It addresses urban integration challenges while providing a safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environment for young children. This project not only enhances the village's architectural landscape but also sets a benchmark for future educational facility designs in similar settings.

All photographs are work of Adrien Barakat