ABOUT THE PROJECT – IN PROGRESS

At Only About Children early learning and preschool they believe that they do things a little bit differently by taking the time to offer a holistic approach, to high quality education centred not just on learning, but also the overall health and well being of your child. At OUTHOUSE design we believe that the design for the internal and external space can be done differently and that’s why were selected to create this unique space within the purpose-built three-story location at Cremorne.

This sensory outdoor space offers a quieter experience and whilst still set on the top floor of the building with an abundance of natural light, when you arrive into the space its designed to be more personal, slower and calmer for children. It still represents a natural learning experience with the combination of the sensory engagement hub and tactile pathway, both offering different level changes, materials and discovery.

But for a tiny space, you will never have a boring moment, discover books to read from the vertical garden tree, chalk board fun or just grab a toy from the built-in storage area. When all that is done children can follow the sensory garden trail which is guided by the raised planters filled with seasonal herbs and scented shrubs and eventually, they arrive at the leaf covered cubby, dedicated to storytelling, learning and that well deserved afternoon nap!

It features soaring natural timber structures supporting planting such as Stag and Elk Horns, all representing a mature forest. The ground finish is made up of graded green surfaces and a combination of textures such as rubber softfall and long pile synthetic grass, drawing the children into areas of discovery, over and under rope bridges, balancing across steppers with garden beds and traversing their way into the cubby via an extensive sandpit moat.

Tree ferns create texture as well as the year-round interest and this combines with scented shrubs and groundcovers. The space has a production gardens for learning and break out discovery tables within the soaring trees for small group activities.