Germany

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Serge Ferrari Group has contributed to a new extension development for a childcare facility in the German town of Betzigau.

Project overview

Located in Betzigau, a small town in Bavaria, Germany, this public establishment combines a day nursery and a pre-school. The facilities were recently expanded, adding a new extension to complement the existing and create new play space for the children. Spanning three floors, the new structure was designed by local architecture practice JAKOB Architekt Beratender Ingenieur PartGmbB.

The unique configuration of the new annex creates ample terrace space above the ground and first floors, used as outdoor play areas for the children. The building’s simple and stripped-down outward design appears largely dominated by wood and glass, while the generous provision of glazed surfaces along the facade makes for a very airy, light-filled interior concept, conveying a sense of quiet freedom.

Soltis 92 to shield the children from direct sunlight

With so many apertures drenching the interiors in natural light, one question is inevitably raised: how do you deliver sufficient thermal and visual protection for the building’s users?

The issue was approached with great consideration by the designers, who developed sliding screen panels seamlessly integrated into the building’s open concept.

The resulting design incorporates 41 sliding aluminium panels. Manufactured and installed by EHRET, each panel is covered with a Soltis 92 composite membrane by Serge Ferrari Group. Woven using the Précontraint technology, it acts as a thermal barrier blocking up to 97% of the sun’s heat. This high-resistance material also contributes to visual comfort indoor and protects the building’s occupants from glare while main Soltis 92 taining clear views to outside.

Soltis 92 is available in a range of colours to create bold and creative combinations. In this case, the designers chose a palette of warm tones evoking comfort and reassurance to subtly complement the natural materials of the envelope. The result underlines the structure’s light and airy design, adding a more welcoming feel.

In addition, all panels have been fitted with wind sensors and built-in clocks to keep track of the sun’s path throughout the day, delivering a fully automated solar protection system for optimal efficiency.

Project participants :

Architect: Jakob Architekt Beratender Ingenieur PartGmbB
Manufacturer-installer & copyrights: EHRET – Schenker Stores
Pictures: Ehret GmbH