Are decisions regarding the place made jointly and transparently?

The day-care centre La Pouponnière Valaisanne is located in a former factory that dates back to the 1970s. Originally intended as a temporary solution, it was converted in 2020 into a nursery school that meets today’s standards. The City of Sion, as the building owner, decided at the outset on the amount to be invested and the procedure to be followed. Subsequently, the various municipal players, the architects from the firm Mijong and other experts involved the future operators and users in the process of designing the building. As a result, the largest nursery school in Sion became a child-friendly place.

Does the place serve its purpose?

In Sion, the demand for places in nurseries and crèches is growing. For this reason, the city has already invested several million Swiss francs to increase the capacity of day-care centres. The conversion of the existing Pouponnière building should be seen in this context. The changes made meet the needs of today’s users and the relevant standards. The work has been carried out with great care and the materials used are robust and durable.

Does the place foster sustainable mobility?

The nursery school is located in the east of the city in the Champsec district. It is a mixed neighbourhood with commercial buildings, housing, businesses, a police school and military facilities. The facility can be reached by bus, on foot or by bicycle. The entrance to the day-care centre has a flat ramp, allowing easy access not only for parents with prams but also for people with physical disabilities.

Have public and private resources been used responsibly?

The building and land are owned by the city. The upgrading and transformation of the former industrial halls into a large and exemplary day-care centre is part of a political strategy. By deciding to invest in this area on the outskirts of town, the city is promoting the development of the neighbourhood. Sion is changing, and this place is making a positive contribution.

Does the place hinder the separation of different social classes?

The centre is open to all children regardless of gender, religion or other factors. The only requirement is that a place is available in one of the groups. Within the building, the rooms and internal courtyards are designed to allow a degree of permeability within the building. For example, the dining room, with its multiple functions, becomes a place of interaction between the different groups of children.

Was the place thoroughly analysed prior to the intervention?

As a first step, the city commissioned a feasibility study to determine if it was possible to expand the existing structure. This was followed by further technical studies to assess the quality and general condition of the abandoned factory. Prior to the refurbishment and extension, the building was used as an interim daycare centre, thus enabling experience to be gathered. The original structure and its industrial character were largely preserved in the renovation. The newly added parts disappear between the existing buildings.

Does the quality of space improve people’s quality of life?

The ground floor with its three inner courtyards structures the activities of the day-care centre. The openings impart spatial and visual generosity to the whole floor. The largest opening is connected to the new roof, which is a terrace where children can play on two different levels joined by stairs and a slide. A conscious choice of natural materials and colours contributes to the pleasant spatial atmosphere.

Does the place have an atmospheric impact on the beholder?

The exterior still has an industrial look. But those who use the place notice the qualities of the interiors – the spatial organisation, the colour concept and the daylight coming in from many sides. The conversion has changed the whole atmosphere of the former factory. The use of high quality materials such as terrazzo, parquet flooring and oak furniture, the large windows and the various outdoor spaces all contribute to the feeling of well-being for the children and staff.