Kindergarten Design Lecture Notes

Overview:

• The kindergarten was designed in 2007.
• It features a unique circular design.
• The rooftop allows for angel circulation.
• Emphasis on allowing children to naturally explore and play.

Design Features:

• Circular Roof:

  • Inspired by children's natural inclination to move in circles.
  • Originally, the principal wanted no handrails, which was challenged by safety regulations.
  • Creative safety solutions include using nets and ropes around trees on the roof.
  • The roof is intentionally low to allow visibility of children from below.

• Open Architecture:

  • No physical boundaries between the inside and outside.
  • Classrooms are not acoustically isolated.
  • Emphasis on noise; children are believed to focus better amidst ambient noise.

Philosophy and Environment:

• Encourages natural exploration and autonomy.

• Children can freely leave and return to the classroom environment, reducing anxiety.

• Exposure to noise is seen as beneficial for concentration and sleep.

• Outdoor Play:

  • The design supports various activities regardless of temperature.
  • Emphasis on natural resilience, e.g., children are waterproof.

Classrooms and Learning Spaces:

• Classrooms are separated by natural elements.

• Skylights in each classroom; serves both functional and imaginative purposes (e.g., Santa Claus during Christmas).

• Trees are incorporated into classroom spaces.

• Engagement with Environment:

  • Children are encouraged to interact with their surroundings, including climbing and playing.
  • The design prompts them to help each other, fostering community and social skills.

Safety and Growth:

• Controlled exposure to mild danger to teach resilience.
• Children learn through experience and self-discovery.

Physical Activity:

• The design facilitates extensive physical activity.
  • Children run large distances around the circular roof daily.
  • Considered to have high athletic abilities due to the environment.

Educational Philosophy:

• Minimal control over children's activities.
• Allow natural development through play and minor injuries.
• Architecture is seen as a transformative tool for enhancing children's lives.

Closing Thoughts:

• The design represents an attempt to improve the lived experience of children through innovative architecture.