Architecture for the future: Bietigheim’s Memory” daycare center receives an award!

Architecture for the future: Bietigheim’s Memory” daycare center receives an award!

In Bietigheim-Bissingen, the “Memory” daycare center on Gerokstrasse was awarded a renowned architecture prize. The innovative project combines the needs of children and families by combining a daycare center with subsidized housing. This successful symbiosis was particularly appreciated by the jury because it shows how important it is to create child-friendly spaces that also benefit the entire district. Architect Nora Schöffel emphasizes that such projects make a valuable contribution to building culture and have a positive influence on people's everyday lives.

Inside the daycare center, visitors can expect an open center that can be used for flexible educational approaches. Child-friendly materials and designed play terraces complement the concept and create an inviting atmosphere for the little ones. The jury highlighted the challenge of accommodating different uses on the relatively narrow site as particularly impressive. According to Petra Knobloch from the Chamber of Architects, the goal is to find exemplary architecture in the context of life.

Architecture in the focus of pedagogy

This award is part of a growing trend in architecture: away from pure single-family homes towards more conversions and the creation of public buildings, especially daycare centers and schools. In recent years in particular, numerous projects have been realized that focus on the needs of younger generations, says Schöffel. In her opinion, architecture plays a crucial role in the social and educational development of children.

In Germany there is an increasing need for high-quality care places. The architectural firm baukind, founded by architect Nathalie Dziobek-Bepler and product designer Lilia Kleemann, is a prime example of this development. The office specializes in planning daycare centers and specifically addresses the needs of children. With over 80 realized projects, including the Flipflopz daycare center in Berlin, baukind shows how spatial design can promote children's educational success. The Flipflopz daycare center has space for 70 children and is organized thematically to support various activities.

The challenges in planning should not be underestimated. Public procurement guidelines often represent hurdles, especially since most projects are funded by the public sector. Nevertheless, the vision of promoting intergenerational learning and strengthening the connection between childcare and other social services remains a central concern.

The winning projects will be officially recognized on February 10, 2026 and then presented in an exhibition, a brochure and via the “Architecture Guide Baden-Württemberg” app. The aim is to increase the visibility and appreciation for high-quality architecture in everyday life.