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Under The Canopy Children’s Center

Emily Fisher Interior Architecture IV Semester VI- Accademia Italiana Prof. V. Rocco M.

Emily Fisher emily@fisher-home.com Interior Architecture IV Semester VI- Accademia Italiana Prof. V. Rocco M.

Introduction Introduction .........................5 Aims ........................................6 Objectives ..............................7 Methodology........................8 Time Scale ............................8

Research

Location ..........................10, 11 History of Location ......12-14 Location Site ...................15, 16 Project Related Topics..17-22 Critical Analysis...............23-25 Inspiration..............................26 References.........................27-29 Mood Board............................30

index

Project

Conclusion

Zoning .................................32 Sketches .........................33-35 Technical Drawings ...36-42 Renders..........................49-64

Finished Plan ....................66 Catalog..........................67-70 Bibliography .......................71 Image Index.................72-74 Conclusion..........................75

“You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” -Winnie the Pooh 3

t p e a h C r One

Introdiction Aims

Objectives

Methodology & Time Scale

Introduction U

nder the Canopy invites you into the magical world of children. Located on the top floor of the historic Museo degli Innocenti, this daycare is a haven designed to spark curiosity, nurture connection, and celebrate the simple joys of childhood. Inspired by the world of Winnie the Pooh, the space embraces simplicity, imagination, and community. The name Under the Canopy represents the Hundred Acre Wood, a shelter of trees that gives children the freedom to grow, explore, and feel a sense of belonging. The children’s daycare is divided into four themed zones: The Game, The Laboratory, The Theatre, and The Planetary. Each encourages creativity and discovery. More than just a daycare, Under the Canopy is a celebration of childhood. A place where wonder blooms, friendships form, and imagination comes to life.

Aims U

nder the Canopy aims to create a welcoming place where children can discover the basics of learning and life through play, creativity, and imagination. Inspired by the lasting values in Winnie the Pooh. This space helps children build real friendships, stay curious, and enjoy the little things each day. Just as Pooh and his friends learn about friendship through their adventures, Under the Canopy encourages wonder, teamwork, and emotional growth. With storytelling, hands-on activities, imaginative play, and even exploring the universe, children naturally develop creativity, critical thinking, and social-emotional skills. This helps set the stage for a lifelong love of learning and the simple joys of childhood.

Objectives 1. Design a functional space that integrates all thematic areas within the square footage. 2. Ensure the materials and color palette reflect the Winnie the Pooh theme while harmonizing with the natural surroundings and architectural elements. 3. Establish a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor learning by incorporating a garden space where children can explore and interact with nature. 4. Enhance children's fine and gross motor skills through engaging, hands-on activities and interactive experiences. 5. Utilize sustainable and innovative materials to promote the health and safety of users. 6. Incorporate ample natural light and well-designed lighting solutions to create a bright, inviting environment that supports children's well-being, enhances focus, and fosters a sense of belonging and security.

Methodology & Time scale January

February

March

April

M ay

● Analysis of the location ● Selection of theme

● Research on montessories, daycares, children’s gardens, sensory design, color theory

● Continue preliminary zoning and sketching

●Final floorplan

●Final revision

● Finalized colored-floorplans and sections

●Presentation

● Research studio requirements

● Create introduction, goals, aims, and objectives, and time scale ● Preliminary zoning and sketching

● Creation and development of final floor plan ●Selection of materials and finishes

●renderings ●Final book presentation

Chapter Two

Location

History of Location

Location Site

Project Related Topics Critical Analysis

Inspiration

References

Mood Board

Location Florence, Italy

lorence, located in the Tuscany region, is known for its rich history, art, and culture. It is home to famous Renaissance sites such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Ponte Vecchio, Michelangelo’s David, and much more. Beyond art and architecture, Florence’s streets are filled with artisan shops, markets, and restaurants. The food scene is very prominent with fresh pastas, local wines, and Italian cuisine. The Arno River runs through the city, adding to its charm with beautiful bridges and surrounding hills.

Project Location

Piazza della Santissima Annunziata

0.3

Piazza Della Santissima Annunziata 0.3

Firenze S. Maria Novella

1.2 km

Santa Maria del Flore

Location history T

Ospedale Delgi Innocent

he Ospedale degli Innocenti stands as one of Florence’s most significant landmarks, notable for its architectural and social impact. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and constructed between 1419 and 1445, it represents one of the earliest orphanages in Europe. Its elegant arches, harmonious proportions, and embodiment of Renaissance ideals not only contribute to its architectural distinction but also reflect its important social role in Florentine society. Established to provide refuge for abandoned and orphaned children, the institution introduced the “foundling wheel” (rota dei trovatelli), which enabled mothers to anonymously leave infants in a secure and compassionate environment. (History | Istituto degli Innocenti, n.d.) Over time, the Ospedale degli Innocenti developed into a central institution for child welfare and education. Currently, the building houses the Museo degli Innocenti, which preserves centuries of history through artworks, archival documents, and interactive exhibits centered on childhood and social care. The institution continues to support children and families, serving as an enduring symbol of Florence’s humanitarian values.

Statue of Fernando I

n the center of the Piazza Santissima Annunziata stands the Equestrian Statue of Grand Duke Ferdinando I, Giambologna’s final work, which was completed by his pupil Pietro Tacca. The statue was meant to function as a counterpart to Giambologna’s equestrian monument to Ferdinando’s father, Cosimo I, which Ferdinando commissioned in 1598. Cosimo I was one of the first such statues to portray a non-military ruler and was the first equestrian monument to be completed in Italy in over 50 years. The monument to Ferdinando was intended to represent him as a peacemaker, as implied by the rider’s and horse’s stance.

Fernando's Bees

n the sculpture’s pedestal is a bronze plaque featuring concentric circles of bees, surrounding one larger central bee. This is emblematic of Ferdinando’s motto Maiestate Tantum, Latin for “Great Majesty,” which also appears on the plaque. Symbolic bee themes were prevalent in Medieval and Renaissance iconography and symbolized solidarity, industriousness, and devotion. The underlying message conveyed by the bee motif in the pedestal of the Equestrian Statue of Grand Duke Ferdinando I was the Medici ideal of an autocratic government, since the bees focus on the one central queen bee, the beneficent provider to worker bees. 13

Ten Terracotta Medallions of Infants

reated by Andrea della Robbia, these infant figures, ten in total, adorn the façade of the Ospedale degli Innocenti, a Florentine foundling hospital founded in 1419. Positioned at regular intervals between the bays of the loggia, each child is set within a round or nearly round recess framed in pietra serena, a gray stone quarried locally. The figures themselves are made of glazed terracotta. Their prominent placement on the building sends a message to represent the very children the hospital was built to shelter and protect.

Location Site

Caffè del Verone

affè del Verone is currently the location site. It is located in the historic loggia on the top floor of the Istituto degli Innocenti and is open to all, including outsiders without a Museum admission ticket. The Café is also accessible to people with disabilities via elevators on each floor. Caffè del Verone has one of the most picturesque terraces with views of the Duomo and Florence’s skyline. The loggia of the Caffè del Verone dates back to the late 15th century, when it was called the “verone” and served as a clothes drying rack for the Ospedale degli Innocenti. In the nineteenth century, it changed its function, becoming a “living room terrace for nannies, infants, and children.” (Caffè del Verone, 2023) After nearly half a century of neglect, in 2016, this admirable renovated space came back to life as a cafeteria and refreshment point for the Museo degli Innocenti.

Project Related Topics Winnie the Pooh

he original Winnie the Pooh is a beloved children’s character created by author A.A. Milne and brought to life through the delicate pen-and-ink illustrations of E.H. Shepard. First published in 1926, the stories follow the adventures of a gentle, honey-loving bear named Pooh and his friends, Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore, and others, in the fictional Hundred Acre Wood, inspired by the English countryside. Shepard’s illustrations, inspired by Milne’s son’s stuffed animals, are integral to the books’ charm, capturing the characters’ innocence and whimsy with soft lines and expressive detail. (How Winnie-the-Pooh Got His Name, 2015) Together, Milne’s storytelling and Shepard’s artwork have made Winnie the Pooh an enduring classic in children’s literature.

Disney

lthough Walt Disney did not create Winnie the Pooh, his company played a significant role in making the character a global phenomenon. In 1961, The Walt Disney Company acquired the rights to the stories, and Walt Disney himself was involved in the early stages of adapting them for animation. (Winnie the Pooh (franchise), 2025) The first Disney short film, Winnie the Pooh and the Honey Tree, premiered in 1966, the same year Walt Disney passed away. From there, the character evolved into a beloved franchise through movies, television series, merchandise, and even theme park attractions. Disney’s adaptations introduced a new visual style and helped transform Pooh from a classic literary figure into a worldwide cultural icon. (Christopher Robin: The Look of Winnie the Pooh Is a Blend of Original Book and 1960s Disney Art, 2018)

The Game

The Game is an indoor net play area designed to boost children’s motor skills through active, imaginative movement. With soft climbing elements, suspended pathways, and playful obstacles, it encourages coordination, balance, and physical confidence all in a safe environment that mimics climbing a tree.

The

The Laboratory is an outdoor garden where children can connect with nature through hands-on exploration. Here, they learn about plants, seasons, and sustainability by nurturing sense of wonder for the natural world.

Labratory

The Planetary

the Theater

The Planetary is a starlit space where children can explore the wonders of the universe. Through lights, projections, and playful storytelling, they learn about planets, stars, and the rhythms of the sky.

The Theater is a playful stage where children express themselves through storytelling, music, and movement. With costumes, props, and room to perform, it encourages creativity, confidence, and the joy of bringing imagination to life. 19

Comfort area

Parent's Area

Reception

Active Wall

The Comfort Area is a cozy, calming retreat designed for quiet moments and creative play. Filled with soft nooks, storybooks, and a dedicated craft corner, it offers children a space to rest, reflect, or express themselves through drawing, coloring, and hands-on making. This area encourages mindfulness, imagination, and the joy of slowing down. The Parents' Area is a peaceful outdoor lounge with comfortable seating and tables, offering a relaxing spot for families to pause and connect. Overlooking the daycare through large windows, it allows parents to enjoy quiet moments while staying visually connected to their children’s world of play and discovery. The Reception is a warm and welcoming entryway that invites families into the world of Under the Canopy. Thoughtfully designed with soft tones and playful details, it sets the tone for comfort and safety making children and parents feel at home from the very first step. The Active Wall is a dynamic feature made of rammed earth, blending natural texture with thoughtful design. It includes built-in seat ing, a tactile sensory wall for exploration, and flexible space for additional seating creating a grounding, interactive element that invites both rest and play. 20

Native Plants

ncorporating native Tuscan plants into the garden area creates a vibrant and educational outdoor space that aligns with both the local environment and the developmental needs of children. By selecting plants like lavender, olive trees, and rosemary, the garden offers a sensory experience through touch, smell, and sight. The drought-tolerant, low-maintenance nature of native plants ensures the garden is easy to care for while remaining environmentally sustainable. Additionally, the local flora supports wildlife such as butterflies and birds, enriching the children’s learning environment and fostering an appreciation for the natural world around them.

Lavender

Poppy

Rockrose

Rosemary

Italian Cypress

Tomatoes

Mrytle

Color Theory Green Green is a versatile and balanced color in color theory, often associated with nature, growth, harmony, and renewal. soft greens (sage, olive, mint) can create a soothing environment, while brighter greens can add energy and playfulness.

Brown Yellow Yellow is the brightest and most energetic color on the spectrum, often associated with happiness, warmth, and creativity. Yellow can be used to stimulate joy, energy, and creativity while balancing it with calming greens.

Brown is a warm, earthy color that represents stability, comfort, and natural simplicity. brown can be used to create a natural, grounding environment.

Beige Beige is a soft, neutral color that exudes warmth, simplicity, and elegance. Beige can be used to create a natural, neutral foundation that enhances brighter, playful colors.

Critical analysis Montessori Garden Daycare Architects: HGAA Area: 600 m² Year: 2020 Location: Ha Long City, Quang Ninh, Vietnam This educational facility, located in a residential area of Ha Long City, Quang Ninh, embraces the core values of Montessori education. Montesorri is a method originating in Europe in the early 20th century and has become more popular in Vietnam in recent years. This method respects children’s independence and creates an environment where they can explore and experience the world through their own senses. The space dedicates more than 50% of the space to the garden, to create a learning space close to nature in which children can learn, connect and interact with nature more often than the regular classes. In this garden, children can learn how to plant and care for fruit vines, seasonal vegetables, and their favorite flowers. The architecture emphasizes a strong connection between indoor and outdoor environments, with transparent glass walls bringing in abundant natural light, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that supports both emotional well-being and focused attention. The open, flexible layout accommodates a variety of learning styles and activities. At the same time, the use of low-rise structures, child-sized furniture, and playful, accessible design features reflects a deep understanding of children’s developmental needs.

Sustainable and Open Concept Kindergarten Architects: Hinz Architekten Area: 20,774 sqft Year: 2023 Location: Berlin, Germany Completed in 2023, the KITA building replaces a deteriorating 1980s kindergarten with an entirely ground-floor, fully barrier-free building that accommodates 170 children. The new concept focuses on openness, accessibility, and inclusivity and integrates with the surrounding environment. Its pavilion-like form includes four central atriums that provide natural light, cross-ventilation, and reduced solar heat gain. The design emphasizes flexibility, with adaptable rooms, large windows, and transparent layouts that foster a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Sustainable features like green roofs, pergolas, and terraces provide additional space for children to explore and play.

Adobe Nursery Architects: Atelier Régis Roudil Architectes Area: 308 m² Year: 2022 Location: Paris, France The 24-child nursery, situated within the historic gardens of the Palais de l’Alma in Paris, was constructed of adobe and timber construction to integrate sustainability with respect for its historical context. This single-story, narrow structure spans the width of the garden and is anchored by two solid adobe forms. The design utilizes bio-sourced, locally available materials, primarily raw earth and wood. An inward-facing layout fosters intimacy and security, creating a peaceful, nurturing environment for children. Courtyards and restricted public visibility further reinforce this sense of calm, supporting early childhood developmental needs. The central area features a large, open classroom organized around a central bathroom block and flanked by two crib areas, which are illuminated by skylights set within a gently arched section of the metal roof. Custom timber furniture offers flexibility, allowing the space to be easily reconfigured as needed. At each end, the more private adobe structures accommodate an office and storage, separated from the central classroom by entrance areas equipped with lockers and seating.

Inspiration play

perform

Interact

explore

Learn 26

Refrences

Net Play

Feelnets

eelnets specializes in designing and manufacturing high-quality climbing nets for playgrounds, offering both standard and custom-made options tailored to children’s needs. These climbing nets are made from durable, weather-resistant materials such as nylon, polyester, or UV-resistant polypropylene, and come in various colors, mesh sizes, and patterns to suit different age groups and difficulty levels. Designed with safety and durability in mind, Feelnets ensures its products meet playground safety standards, making them ideal for both public and private play spaces. Climbing nets from Feelnets promote physical development, coordination, and problem-solving in children, making them a popular and beneficial playground feature. 27

Rubber

Nora by Interface

ora by Interface offers a line of high-performance rubber flooring that is especially well-suited for environments like children’s daycares. Known for its durability, comfort, and sustainability, Nora rubber floors provide a seamless, resilient surface that supports both safety and wellness. The flooring is slip-resistant and shock-absorbent, reducing the risk of injuries from falls, an important feature in spaces designed for young children. Its sound-absorbing properties help create a calmer, more focused environment, minimizing noise that can be overwhelming in busy daycare settings. Nora floors are also free from PVC and other harmful additives, contributing to healthier indoor air quality. Easy to clean and resistant to stains, they are hygienic and low-maintenance, making them a practical choice for daily use. 28

Sensory

Learning Space UK

K Sensory Design offers a wide range of sensory wall panels and accessories designed to support children’s learning and development through interactive play. These panels and activities help enhance fine motor skills, creativity, and sensory engagement as children explore and manipulate different elements. Suitable for bedrooms, classrooms, or dedicated sensory rooms, the products include tactile panels, wall stickers, and fun games that can be enjoyed repeatedly. Additionally, the brand offers special wall paints, such as Glow in the Dark, Magnetic, Sketch, and Blackboard Paint, allowing for the creation of personalized, stimulating sensory environments that promote hands-on learning and imaginative play. 29

Mood Board Community

joy

Chapter Three

Zoning

Sketches

Technical Drawings

Renders

zoning diagrams Diagram #1

Diagram #2

Diagram #3

Diagram #4 Final Decision

The Game

Sketches

Parent's Area

The Lab

Technical Drawings