Project: Camping at School, Quzhou Kecheng Jiaogong Kindergarten
Award: Education, Gold, 2023
Location: Hangzhou, China
Architect: LYCS Architecture
Client: Jiaogong Kindergarten
Located in a densely populated residential area with limited space for expansion, the Jiaogong kindergarten has taken an innovative approach to maximising play space. The building’s massing is elevated on one level, transforming the ground floor into an outdoor "camping" site. This natural and revitalizing environment, including a grass slope, is intended to inspire self-discovery and learning for children. The form of the building creates an enclosed circular courtyard, which brings more light into the building and offers a sense of security for children. The gable-shaped voids around the inner courtyard create visual transparency and accessibility in between the open spaces outside the periphery of the building and the courtyard. These voids are painted in bright colours and serve as further play and learning spaces. They are arranged in a semi-open combination to resemble a campfire gathering in a campsite.
Design highlights
The circular corridor on the floors above is the main area for children's activities during breaks and serves as a circular exhibition hall showcasing children's learning diaries and creative ideas. The well-arranged glass windows bring in sunlight, casting rhythmic light and shadows and creating visual interactions between children playing in the courtyard and corridors.
Photo credit: Wu Qing Shan
LEAD ARCHITECTS: Hao Ruan, Yuan Zhan
ARCHITECTURE DESIGN: Zhao Lin,Sheng Xichen, Xu Mengjia,Yin Yue,Wang Wenguang,Ma Guangyu
INTERIOR DESIGN: Xu Sheng,Lu Xianhui,Li Honghui,Chen Ying,Wang Danlu,Ruan Wenjuan