Nursery World - Grand designs

The best new nurseries are not built just to look stylish - the environment they create is crucial to children's learning and happiness. Annette Rawstrone sizes up some winners Laying the foundations for positive pre-school experiences can all come down to careful planning of the nursery environment. The challenge to design nurseries that allow children to have the freedom to explore, socialise and make their own choices has been passed on to top architects under the Government's Neighbourhood Nurseries initiative.

Laying the foundations for positive pre-school experiences can all come down to careful planning of the nursery environment. The challenge to design nurseries that allow children to have the freedom to explore, socialise and make their own choices has been passed on to top architects under the Government's Neighbourhood Nurseries initiative.

The winning designs of three Neighbourhood Nurseries (News, 16 August) will be used as a blueprint for future nurseries to create buildings that are adaptable, functional and provide an environment where children can thrive.

Early years consultant Jennie Lindon says it is crucial that nursery buildings encourage children's personal, social and emotional development. 'If a nursery is not warm and encouraging, it can make children feel low and unhappy, and reluctant to learn and explore. A miserable building can bring adults down too,' she says.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included