The Bologna firm of Mario Cucinella built this kindergarten in Guastalla, in the Italian province of Reggio Emilia. Replacing two schools that were damaged in the earthquake the shook the zone in 2012, the building is expressly designed to stimulate 120 children in the 0–3 age range to interact with the surroundings. The timber structure contains the various educational areas, alternating transparent surfaces that generate a visual play between interior and exterior. Taking into account the pedagogical capacity of forms and materials, the project studies the sensory perceptions tied to light, colors, and sounds, besides tactile possibilities. The construction includes photovoltaic panels and systems for collecting rainwater, reducing the need for mechanical equipment in meeting the school’s energy requirements. Mario Cucinella Architects Moreno Maggi