Q&A: Fast-Tracked and Functional – Four Modular Kindergartens by SUMMARY in Lisbon
A conversation with SUMMARY on redefining early childhood education infrastructure through modular construction.
In Lisbon, a growing need for accessible early childhood education led to a city-wide initiative to expand the kindergarten network. In response, Portuguese architecture studio SUMMARY developed a modular, prefabricated design capable of being replicated across multiple sites. Their solution: four kindergartens constructed simultaneously in different neighbourhoods, each built using U-shaped reinforced concrete modules. Completed within just 13 months, these projects provide a compelling case study in how modular architecture can meet educational, spatial and urban challenges—without compromising on quality, durability or child-centric design. We spoke with the team at SUMMARY about the strategies behind the project and what it signals for the future of education spaces.
all photography by Fernando Guerra | FG + SG
What prompted the development of these four modular kindergartens in Lisbon?
SUMMARY:
These kindergartens were developed in response to a public initiative led by the Municipality of Lisbon. The city launched a competition aimed at expanding its network of early childhood education facilities in a fast and cost-effective manner. Our proposal responded to the challenge with a modular, prefabricated solution that enabled the simultaneous construction of four facilities across distinct urban locations.
Why did the studio opt for a modular system based on U-shaped reinforced concrete elements?
SUMMARY:
This was the first time we used a three-dimensional prefabricated system built from U-shaped reinforced concrete modules. These structural elements offered both architectural clarity and practical advantages – particularly in terms of speed and durability. The choice of concrete aligns with the competition’s requirements for long-lasting, low-maintenance buildings suitable for public use.
What were the major benefits of this modular approach in the context of educational architecture?
SUMMARY:
The most immediate benefit was speed: all four buildings were delivered within 13 months. Additionally, prefabrication reduced on-site disruption – an essential consideration in dense, urban neighbourhoods. From an educational perspective, the system allowed us to replicate a successful spatial model across different sites while maintaining consistency in quality, safety, and user experience.
How are the kindergartens organised spatially?
SUMMARY:
Each building consists of two blocks of overlapping U-shaped modules. Between them runs a central corridor that supports all vertical and horizontal circulation – including stairwells and elevators. This layout creates clear sightlines and straightforward navigation, which are critical for both child safety and efficient supervision. It also houses the main HVAC infrastructure, streamlining maintenance.
What role do outdoor areas play in the educational design?
SUMMARY:
Outdoor spaces were designed as extensions of the learning environment. We incorporated non-slip, paved areas for wheeled play and gardens to support sensory and physical activities. The landscaping focused on soil permeability and low-maintenance planting, with species chosen for their climate adaptability and allergy safety.
How does the design respond to the constraints of urban sites?
SUMMARY:
All four kindergartens are compact, two-storey buildings. This verticality helps minimise the footprint on constrained urban plots, leaving more room for outdoor play. Service areas are on the ground floor, while children’s activity rooms span both levels. Importantly, all activity rooms provide direct access to the outdoors—either at ground level or via upper-floor terraces.
In what ways did prefabrication influence the architectural language of the buildings?
SUMMARY:
The formal identity of each building is derived directly from its modular system. The tectonic logic is visible—joints, modules, and stacking sequences are all readable from the exterior. Rather than concealing the construction method, we embraced it as a key part of the architecture’s expression.
How did the construction process support sustainability and neighbourhood integration?
SUMMARY:
Off-site prefabrication reduced environmental disruption—limiting waste, dust, and noise during assembly. This was essential in ensuring the surrounding communities were not adversely impacted by construction. Our goal was to deliver much-needed public infrastructure while respecting the rhythms of the city.
What lessons can other cities or institutions draw from this project?
SUMMARY:
This project illustrates how educational infrastructure can be expanded rapidly without sacrificing quality or identity. It shows the potential of modular systems not just for emergency or temporary use, but as a long-term, adaptable solution for growing public education needs. With rising demand and limited urban space, strategies like this offer a pragmatic way forward.
Project Details
- Project: 4 Modular Kindergartens
- Architect: SUMMARY
- Project Lead: Samuel Gonçalves
- Collaborators: Inês Rodrigues, João Meira, Sara Perfetti, Adina Staicu
- Engineering: FTS, Technical Solutions
- Prefabrication Partner: Farcimar
- Client: C.M. Lisboa
- Location: Lisbon, Portugal
- Building Area: 760 m² + 760 m² + 570 m² + 570 m²
- Material: Reinforced Concrete
- Category: Nursery / Public Building
- Completion: Built
SUMMARY is a young architecture studio based in Portugal. Since 2015, it has focused on developing prefabricated solutions that streamline construction while meeting contemporary urban needs—balancing pragmatism with experimentation.
