![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/03/CANAILLOUX-02.jpg)
Les Ti’Canailloux by Topos Architecture
French studio Topos Architecture have completed a nursery in Nantes where the gabled ends are clad in red polycarbonate, engraved with floral patterns.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/03/dzn_Nursery-Nantes-2.jpg)
Called Les Ti’Canailloux, the project features larch cladding that blends the gabled structures with perimeter walls and encloses a playground.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/03/dzn_Nursery-Nantes-3.jpg)
Photographs are by Patrick Miara.
Here's some more more information from the architects:
The nursery is located in Nantes, on a woody parcel of 700 m2, at the corner of two streets, in a residential area. The Architects opted for an original urban building, in harmony with the district. In this way, the nursery is based on a jewellery box: the high volumes seem to come unfolded from an initial central volume. It looks like a big house.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/03/dzn_Nursery-Nantes-5.jpg)
Constructive system:
The nursery was designed in order to give, at the building’s back, a protected and quiet children’s garden with trees.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/03/dzn_Nursery-Nantes-6.jpg)
The main building material is the wood (European Larch). It is used for the frame, the vertical cladding and the roof.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/03/dzn_Nursery-Nantes-4.jpg)
It entirely covers the building. The Larch was processed without chemicals, but with an innovative technology based on old times techniques: “Oléothermie”.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/03/dzn_Nursery-Nantes-1.jpg)
The wood is impregnated with vegetables oils that have proprieties against fungus.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/03/dzn_Nursery-Nantes-8.jpg)
The two gables are covered by chiselled and coloured “Polycarbonate”, according to a new process. With this technique, the “Polycarbonate” soaks up the light. It accentuates the modern looking of the building.
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/03/dzn_Nursery-Nantes-9.jpg)
Programme: conception and construction of a day nursery “Les Ti’Canailloux”
![](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2010/03/dzn_Nursery-Nantes-10.gif)
Click for larger image
Location: Nantes (44) - France
Surface: 350 m2
Children in the nursery: 30
Project owner: Association “Les Ti’Canailloux”