BY GRAPHIC CONCRETE
19.03.2020

Tikkurila Daycare has recently opened in Vantaa, Finland, featuring a giant crocodile decorated with a Graphic Concrete pattern.

Finland is widely regarded as one of the best countries in the world to raise children, thanks to its safe society and high-quality education system. In line with this, the City of Helsinki has increased its investment in new daycare centers and schools. While Graphic Concrete has been used in many educational buildings, it has rarely been featured in daycare projects. That is why it is especially exciting to introduce Tikkurila Daycare, located in the Helsinki metropolitan area.

The daycare opened in November 2019. It was designed by Parviainen Arkkitehdit Oy and prefabricated by SBS Betoni Oy, Finland. The building has attracted media attention because of its distinctive features. One of the most notable is that it is a three-story daycare, which is still uncommon in Finland. During the planning process, there was considerable discussion about how the building would fit into the surrounding residential area. Despite the initial concerns, the daycare has been a great success.

The real highlight of the project is the giant crocodile slide in the playground, which has quickly become one of the children's favorite places. There could hardly be better feedback than that!

Parviainen Arkkitehdit Oy designed the Graphic Concrete pattern for the crocodile's surface. After prefabrication, the crocodile was painted green, making it look even more lifelike. When you get close enough, you discover a delightful surprise – the pattern is made up of tiny handprints and footprints!

We hope the children create their own stories inspired by the crocodile and its playful surface. It has been a truly heartwarming project, and we are delighted to have contributed to the children's everyday environment. We look forward to continuing to be part of their world.

Project details
Architecture: Parviainen Arkkitehdit Oy
Color: Colored surface (stained, concrete protection)
Pattern: Designer's own
Prefabrication: SBS Betoni Oy
Address: Neilikkatie 3, FI-01300 Vantaa, Finland
Type: Daycare
Year: 2019