▲ Street facade
Our clients manage a diverse range of BIM-based educational institutions, from kindergartens to university campuses. This particular site benefits from an exceptional location, surrounded by ponds, forests, parks, and gardens, providing a rich natural environment. The clients aspire to transform this venue into a hub for local community educational activities by creating an open and inviting learning environment.
In response, our design concept focuses on “integrating into the forest,” crafting a building that is open and seamlessly connected to its natural surroundings.
▲ Aerial view
▲ West facade
The spatial layout was meticulously studied to enhance interaction with the environment. By softening boundaries and blending spaces of various scales, the building achieves an openness that gently dissolves into the surrounding landscape. Visitors can stroll through the space, enjoying sunlight and fresh air, evoking the feeling of being immersed in a forest.
▲ Main entrance
▲ Secondary entrance
During childhood, a critical period of growth and learning, materials and colors inside and outside the building significantly influence curiosity and motivation. It is essential for children to be surrounded by natural materials as they develop.
▲ Children’s passage
▲ Children engaging in activities near the teacher’s office area
We prioritized the use of natural wood, especially in areas where children have direct contact. The colors chosen throughout the building draw inspiration from the local flora, reflecting traditional Japanese palettes named after native plants and animals.
▲ First floor corridor
▲ Second floor corridor
▲ Bathing area
▲ Classroom
The colors highlight everyday spaces such as the stairs, teacher’s office, and bathrooms. They enrich the spatial experience by fostering emotional connections that encourage users to love the environment. Through the thoughtful layering of light, shadow, color, and materials, the building radiates a vibrant atmosphere throughout the community.
▲ South staircase
▲ North staircase
Design drawings:
▲ General layout plan
▲ First floor plan
▲ South elevation view
▲ Sectional view
Project Information:
Architect: Takenaka Corporation
Location: Kagawa City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan
Category: Kindergarten
Lead Architects: Masashi (BIM Architecture) Suzuki, Yuki Takata, Takahiro Kido
Building Area: 999.13 m²
Project Year: 2018
Photographer: Tomoki Hahakura
Suppliers: Tamiya, Union, TAKEMURA INDUSTRY, Fujiwara Chemical
Owner: Mutsumi Gakuen
Budget: Approximately 7.0 million USD
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