Explore Roar's groundbreaking LEED Gold Certified Montessori environment for PIF Daycare Centre in Riyadh.

Roar was commissioned by a private sovereign wealth fund in Saudi Arabia to design its new Daycare Centre in Riyadh.

The brief was to develop a nurturing, sensory-rich environment where children aged 0 to 3 can flourish — based on the premise that the right setting can make all the difference in a child’s formative years.

Located in the King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), the only LEED Platinum-certified mixed-use district in the world, PIF Daycare was recently awarded the prestigious LEED Gold certification, reflecting Roar’s long-standing commitment to redefining early childhood spaces.

Rooted in the Montessori philosophy, Roar's design aims to foster social, cognitive, motor, and language skills among young children. "Inspired by neuroarchitecture, which recognises how spaces can deeply impact behaviour and emotions, we have created an environment where every element is tailored to nurture curiosity, comfort, and a sense of belonging,” comments Pallavi Dean, founder and creative director of Roar.

A Thoughtfully Designed Space for Early Learning

At the core of the PIF Daycare design is an understanding that environments play a crucial role in shaping early childhood experiences. Drawing from Montessori principles, Roar has imagined a space where natural materials like sustainable wood, cotton fabrics, and bamboo form a tactile backdrop that invites sensory exploration and creativity. Furniture and play structures are designed with soft, rounded edges to ensure safety while encouraging engagement with the surroundings.

"Our goal was to create an interior that resonates with children and stimulates all their senses," Pallavi Dean adds. "The use of earthy tones, organic shapes, and natural textures compose a calming palette that soothes and promotes a peaceful atmosphere conducive to learning and exploration."

A Harmonious Integration of Technology and Nature

PIF Daycare balances traditional learning methods and modern educational tools by integrating interactive digital experiences in a controlled, meaningful way. These digital tools support cognitive development and inspire children to take calculated risks within a supervised environment, aligning perfectly with Montessori ideals.

Outdoor spaces are optimally connected to the interior, fostering a sense of continuity and promoting physical activity and interaction with nature. Designed with safety and stimulation in mind, these areas encourage children to explore their milieu, engage with natural elements like water and plants, and enhance their gross motor skills.

Varied Learning Zones for Holistic Development

The daycare is organised into various learning zones, each serving a specific purpose and contributing to the holistic development of its young occupants:

Classrooms are designed as flexible spaces to accommodate a range of activities, from individual play to group interactions.

Library and Physical Activity Areas provide spaces for quiet reading, storytelling, and indoor physical activities.

The Sleep Room is equipped with specialised lighting and sound controls to ensure restful nap times.

Administrative and Mothers’ Facilities are also included, providing a comfortable, functional environment for caregivers.

By carefully considering each design element, Roar has imagined a facility that not only meets the developmental needs of children but also cultivates positive behaviours, emotional well-being, and a strong sense of community.

A Vision for the Future of Educational Spaces

PIF Daycare sets a benchmark for how educational spaces can be thoughtfully designed to support early childhood development. "This project showcases our belief that design should go beyond aesthetics," explains Pallavi Dean. "It’s about creating environments that are nurturing, inspiring, and sustainable—spaces that can make a lasting impact on a child’s life."