Budva Municipality has announced a national competition for the architectural design of a new kindergarten in Petrovac. The initiative aims to replace an aging prefabricated structure built in 1979 with a modern, functional, and environmentally sustainable facility. The total prize fund for the competition is set at €45,000, with the first prize amounting to €15,000, the second prize at €10,000, and the third prize at €6,000. An additional €3,000 is allocated for the purchase of the selected designs. Designers interested in participating can submit their proposals until March 20, 2026.
The new kindergarten will be constructed on a plot of land measuring 3,470 m². Currently, the site houses a prefabricated building that was erected as emergency support following a devastating earthquake, funded by the Austrian Government. The existing structure, which has served the local children for decades, is slated for demolition to make way for a facility that meets contemporary standards.
According to the competition guidelines, architects are required to create a design that harmonizes visually with local architecture while incorporating modern elements. The goal is to produce a solution that addresses the functional and aesthetic needs of Petrovac. “The objective is to obtain a design that functionally and aesthetically meets the needs of Petrovac,” the documentation states. The building is planned to be a free-standing structure with a configuration of P+1 (ground floor and first floor).
Key design considerations include maximizing natural light and ventilation through large openings facing the courtyard and play areas. Functional layout is essential, ensuring logical arrangements of living spaces, communal areas, and administrative blocks. Additionally, the design should foster a welcoming atmosphere for the community while ensuring safety for children with unobtrusive barriers.
The competition materials emphasize that the kindergarten should not only serve as an educational institution but also emerge as a new symbol for the area. “It should provide children with a safe and inspiring environment for growth,” the competition documentation highlights.
The new facility will span nearly 3,500 m², and designers are encouraged to present visual representations that demonstrate how their concepts align with the Mediterranean context. Stringent adherence to ecological standards and cost-effective maintenance practices is paramount. When selecting materials, attention must be paid to the local climate, with preference given to those contributing to a healthy microclimate, durability, and visual harmony with the surroundings.
As Budva Municipality embarks on this ambitious project, it reaffirms its commitment to improving educational infrastructure and community resources in Petrovac.
