Development tree surveys to identify assets and constraints.

Trees being used as an asset by the developers.

When trees are on a development site they are often unduly considered a constraint to the sites development potential. However a suitable tree survey for planning should help identify not only trees that may pose a constraint to the development potential of a site, but also the trees that would add value and be an asset to any new development.

This newly built kindergarten is a great example of using a sites existing trees as an asset not a constraint. It is located in the middle of a grove of chestnut trees and celebrates a sense of visual connection with the surrounding trees. Each classroom has a large panoramic window looking onto the chestnut trees and a skylight through which the tops of trees can be glimpsed. 

There is now good evidence that access to nature contributes to the health and wellbeing of young people and significantly improves their powers of concentration, so the kids at this kindergarten should be off to a good start!

Kindergarten build around trees using them as an asset.

Trees being the crucial part of the surrounding of the kindergarten.

Architects: goya 
Photos © Kurt Hoerbst