Metsäniitty schoolyard rebuilt as climate-resilient play and learning space

A revamped courtyard at the Metsäniitty early childhood education and care centre in Tampere now serves as a pilot for climate‑resilient urban design. The work follows the city's May plan to green the Metsäniitty schoolyard.

The refurbishment, funded by the EU’s Horizon Europe programme and part of the international SMARTER project, introduces extra vegetation, shade and nature-based stormwater management. Materials such as bio‑sand have been used to make the site more resilient to heavy rain and heatwaves.

The design prioritises children’s everyday contact with nature. Plantings and habitats serve as teaching resources on seasons, pollinators and biodiversity, and children were invited to test options and vote on their favourites. The final section will be finished later, alongside refurbishment of the building's older wing.

The project is being monitored with the National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) to measure effects on children’s wellbeing, environmental quality and climate adaptation. From 22 to 24 September, Tampere will host SMARTER’s international meeting and partners will visit the Metsäniitty pilot on site. Harri Mannonen, Senior Property Manager at Tampereen Tilapalvelut Oy, says the aim is not just to renovate the yard. It's to gather practical solutions for future city investments and construction projects.