Sustainability at the UCD Oakmount Crèche
Physical learning environments can contribute to child development and can create a positive influence by promoting child-directed and child-initiated play. Incorporating sustainable design, the recently completed expansion of the Oakmount Crèche creates eco-friendly extension to the University’s childcare facilities that is both welcoming and exciting.
Designed by ABA Architects, one of the key objectives of the project was to incorporate principles of sustainable design to exceed current building standards while providing a space specifically designed for children as well as creating a high-quality and unique appearance to the building.
Sustainable elements of the building include solar panels designed to achieve both passive and active solar energy, a humidity variable diffusion resistance vapour barrier installed to improve the insulation of the building, and the use of a timber frame.
Other Unique design elements of the extension include the following:
- A glazed entrance area to increase light and heat efficiency.
- A child friendly play area including a blue floor which has an arrangement of yellow 'stepping stone' circles.
- A blue 'Magic Room Tower' which has a variety of windows of different shapes and sizes, designed to vaguely imitate a freckled child's smiling face.
- Low horizontal windows at the bottom, designed for toddlers to observe the world from.
- An infinity wall and integrated projection facilities with surround sound.
Opened in April 2010 by the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Mr Barry Andrews TD, the new purpose built facilities at Oakmount Crèche can offer services for up to 110 children.
The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Mr. Barry Andrews TD at University College Dublin pictured with Bereket Mengesha Taye, Harry Judge and Nicola Little
The building was partially funded through the National Development Plan 2007-2013 under the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010.
