Influence of Space on Interactivity Aspects in Pre-School Facilities in the City of Niš, Serbia: Case Study Analysis

Abstract

Creating a healthy environment for pre-school children in kindergartens is about providing fundamental spatial comfort, a comprehensive program and conceptual adaptation of both inner and outer space. The aim of this study was to investigate the interactivity aspect of pre-school children facilities in Niš, Serbia, with the emphasis on a space as its determinant. As the most important aspects of spatial interactivity, which should be improved, this research recognized open spaces and space for play, improvement of existing classrooms and multifunctional spaces. A horizontal (creating of activity pockets using mobile elements and custom-made furniture) and vertical (introduction of galleries for sleeping) spatial differentiation of existing playrooms is recommended as central activity. Our results imply that a transformation of existing multipurpose spaces into an extension of the surrounding playrooms could contribute to the space quality, and result in diverse learning environment oriented toward active and self-learning.

Keywords

• children’s needs
• interactivity
• kindergarten design
• psycho-social development
• space