When we began exploring the topic of new materials in contemporary construction, we found an almost endless spectrum of possibilities. Some technologies have already become relatively common—like glued or cross-laminated timber and 3D-printed concrete—while others remain experimental, such as the application of biotechnology in the development of new composites, or materials and structures shaped by living organisms, including mycelium, microphytes, or even higher organisms like the silkworm.

On the edge of Horní Jirčany, a new complex of buildings embodies a bold vision—to combine a retirement home with a kindergarten. The most challenging aspect of the design was fitting the required capacities on the site, while still maintaining a relatively small scale in keeping with the surrounding development. The complex is divided into three main volumes: two serve as assisted living apartments, and one houses the kindergarten. The apartment buildings, connected by a glazed corridor topped with a green roof, form an acoustic barrier shielding an inner garden, which serves as a shared outdoor space for both facilities. The apartment buildings are divided into smaller formal units with individual roofs that help reduce their overall scale. The kindergarten, containing a single classroom and a small community room, is placed close to a nearby forest and follows the same architectural language established by the retirement home.

Each of us probably remembers the building of the kindergarten we once attended. What often comes back, rather than specific recollections, are the sensations and impressions associated with that place. For me, it’s the garden with its quiet corner under the trees, where new friendships were formed; the lockers in the dimly lit corridor that marked the start of every school day; or the soft carpet, onto which I once accidentally spilled an entire bowl of soup. As you begin reading this issue, I invite you to try this exercise, too: what spatial memories come to your mind?

Review of the last exhibition at the České Budějovice House of Art led by curator Michal Škoda.

What’s it like to lead an editorial team and oversee the content strategy of an architecture magazine? The editors-in-chief of ERA21 interview their predecessors to find out.