This is the kind of project that makes you wish you had intimate access to the zeitgeist of another country. To us North Americans, the idea of an outdoor firepit designed especially for young children might seem incredibly alien, but clearly for this Norwegian kindergarten, the idea makes total sense. Why? Read the architecture firm's rationale after the jump.

ArchDaily reports that architecture firm Haugen/Zohar Arkitekter was commissioned by the municipality of Trondheim in Norway to create an outdoor project for young children. The firm responded with this concept, predicated on the year-round outdoorsiness of Norwegian children and families.

Inspired by traditional turf huts and old log construction, but using modern building techniques and leftover materials from a nearby construction site, this beautifully organic structure is described as "an enclosed space for fire, storytelling and playing."

Beyond that, the article doesn't explain exactly how and when the fireplace is used, which is something we'd love to know more about. Are any Ohdeedohers familiar with this kind of concept? Let us know!

Via Neatorama

Images: Jason Havneraas & Grethe Fredriksen