Building sizes that don't fit all

I find the Government criteria intended to verify value for money and so-called 'fitness for purpose' in new or refurbished Sure Start buildings, are based increasingly on a checklist mentality. If the proposed development fulfils arbitrary criteria, such as the pre-determined area of play space per child, regardless of how the environment supports more complex patterns of play, that building will be approved.

There is an increasingly formulaic process dictating the design of early years facilities that takes little account of individual situations. For example, if a building is in a densely built-up area, and has little or no outside play space, more space should be provided than the meagre allowance in the guidelines. Conversely, if children have ready access to safe, secure outside play space and the curriculum focuses on outside activities, it could be argued that less internal play space is required.

There is a 'one size fits all' attitude which flies in the face of the reality that every child and every setting is unique. Just as childcare workers need to uncover the curriculum in every child, architects must strive to uncover the authentic nature of the place, and design accordingly. We will only do justice to the ongoing Government investment by developing more responsive approaches to the design of new childcare buildings.