This paper explores the dual meaning of the word “cultivation”. The first dimension is metaphorical and refers to the cultivation of the soul, the mind, and the character primarily of young children, and secondarily of adults.
Living within the urban fabric, most people have lost their connection with nature. In 2005, Richard Louv, in his book “Last Child in the Woods”, introduced the concept of Nature Deficit Disorder. The term describes the consequences of human alienation from the natural environment, including reduced use of the senses, attention deficit issues, and increased levels of mental and physical illness.
In this study, we worked on the design of a contemporary alternative kindergarten that simultaneously functions as a multi-purpose educational space for the environment and cultivation, open to all ages. Drawing inspiration from the forest schools that are increasingly spreading across Europe, as well as from architects such as Aris Konstantinidis and Junya Ishigami, we developed “Cultivations” Under a Roof: The Dual Role of an Alternative Educational Park.