by Chain10 Architecture & Interior Design Institute
The project is located in New Ciaotou. It is a mature residential area adjacent to the Kaohsiung Science and Technology Park. Education has not been made a priority in this area so a school was created by using the advantages of the natural environment to improve preschool children’s awareness and exploration of the natural ecology.
Metabolic architecture, was officially created as a style on an international platform for the first time at the World Design Conference held in Tokyo, Japan in 1960.
The architects try to make the educational space and play space unfold at a higher level below the ground level, symbolizing that the growth of all things basically originates from the earth. While other activity spaces, such as teacher offices, conference rooms and art museum, are placed on the upper floors. The buildings can be freely extended upwards like plants, and the architectural space on the higher floors is only defined by glass because of the integration of the natural environment.
The kindergarten has an ecological pool with rocks of different shapes and sizes next to the entrance. The rocks serve as a symbiotic and aesthetic function. They provide a place to protect the fish from the sun and also allow the growth of algae which is an important source fish food. There are small fish in the pool which students can provide educational value to the students nearby. Migratory birds will also stop by to create a small biosphere as found in nature. Around the kindergarten, we put in animal statues of giraffes to create an atmosphere that combines the environment and biology.
Multifunctional room is for the students to show their parents what they have learned each semester. This room could also be used for other functions as it has plenty of space for potential learning events. Behind that is the kitchen area for food preparation. If there is an event, it can also be used as a facility to provide light food, creating interaction and connection within the community.
We are moving towards the virus being more endemic. In the post-pandemic era, we need to completely rethink our lifestyle and establish an independent space. When people enter the space, they first need to comply with typical pandemic prevention measures.
Category:Mixed-Use BuildingsYear:2022Location:Kaohsiung City, TaiwanArchitects:Chain10 Architecture & Interior Design InstituteLead Architect: Keng-Fu LoClient: Chain10 Architecture & Interior Design InstitutePhotographer: Courtesy of the Architects