When I moved to Ibiza, I ran the bookstore Libro Azul for a few years , which became a popular meeting place for literature and book lovers. However, changing times, changing reading habits, and the dominance of Amazon forced me to close the bookstore. However, those years were formative: I made valuable contacts and friendships and rediscovered my passion for writing.
I've always written stories, but it wasn't until I began my intensive study of books that I dared to publish my first children's book: "Kio, the Big Little Seahorse ." The story combines an environmentally conscious message with the idea of encouraging children and adults to confidently take a stand for environmental protection. My friend and talented illustrator Jan Anderson breathed life into Kio with his loving illustrations. Every page of the book is thoughtfully crafted and full of details that convey the message in a unique way.
The vision was clear from the start: Kio shouldn't just conquer children's rooms, but also actively encourage environmental awareness. At a beach cleanup for a local school, I met former Libro Azul customers . There, I also met Markus Lück , General Manager of the then-newly opened 7Pines Resort. I suggested organizing environmental days for children at the hotel, including a beach cleanup, book reading, and creative workshops. Markus immediately embraced the idea – and went a step further: "How about an entire kids' club based on Kio and your concept?"
This opportunity exceeded all my expectations! With plenty of time and patience, we developed the concept that eventually became a reality: Kio House of Kids .
Welcome to the Kio House of Kids at the 7 Pines Resort in Ibiza
Kio House of Kids is an eco-friendly and sustainable club that offers children a high-quality and inspiring educational experience. With a focus on awareness, imagination, and creativity, we create a place where young guests can learn and grow through play.
Our goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment where children develop a deep connection with nature. Sustainability and environmental awareness are central to this—values that we strive to teach children in a creative and playful way.
Our rooms:
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Blue Room : A tranquil sensory oasis with an underwater theme and soft blue tones. Here, babies and toddlers can play, explore, or rest in a relaxed atmosphere.
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Yellow Room : A lively creative area that invites crafts, painting, and discovery. Here, children can playfully experience nature and care for plants.
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Pink Room : A media room for older children that combines digital content with environmental awareness. Exciting videos and board games encourage collaborative learning and discovery.
A place to grow
The design of the Kio House of Kids combines warmth and security, reflecting the inviting atmosphere of the resort. The outdoor area with its garden invites children to experience nature with all their senses—from growing plants to playfully exploring their surroundings.
Loving details
Particularly impressive are the hand-painted murals of Kio, the little seahorse, which not only decorate the rooms but also bring life and history to the room. Designed with great attention to detail, they are a true highlight – for children and adults alike.
The Kio House of Kids is a place where imagination and sustainability go hand in hand to inspire children and turn them into environmentally conscious little heroes.
Expansion: Kio House of Kids in Sardinia
Two years later, the second Kio House of Kids opened in Sardinia. Here, Kio has its own wooden house and a large garden under pine trees. The color schemes and basic ideas were adopted, and the Mediterranean style of the place is also reflected in the design. Yet it also has its own unique qualities and elements. Kio House of Kids remains an individual concept: Each location is tailored to local conditions and needs.
A fitting animated video was created, depicting Kio's journey from Ibiza to Sardinia. With illustrations by Azuzen Giganto and Jan Anderson , a script by Jorge Pinedas and me, and music by Jordi Cantos , the video tells Kio's adventure.
Kio House of Kids in Scotland
The third Kio House of Kids was created at Roxburghe Castle in Scotland. Here, we deliberately chose a Celtic style that captures the colors, moods, and stories of the North. Each location tells its own story—and for Scotland, a whole new story is being created around Kio.
gratitude
A project like this wouldn't be possible without the people who support it. My special thanks go to Carlos Fritz , who supported and motivated Kio from the very beginning. Carlos, thank you for your trust and tireless commitment – I'm looking forward to everything that's to come!
Thanks also to the entire team at 7 Pines Resorts and Roxburghe Castle, who bring Kio to life and carry on the values that are dear to all of us.
Welcome to the Kio House of Kids – where imagination and sustainability shape a better future.
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