From illusion to reality, from pursuit to transformation into a butterfly,
The power of growth in all things constantly inspires wonder and anticipation.
We have been dedicated to exploring the vitality of children’s development,
a force that transcends mere sight.
When the Import and Export Trade Center is transformed into a kindergarten,
what stories will emerge?
We share these stories, hidden deep within our hearts, through photographs.
▲ The growth of all things between illusion and reality
This kindergarten project is a renovation of existing structures, transformed from a former import and export trade center. Featuring clear planning, a simple façade, and initially in a state of disrepair, the site underwent extensive field surveys and detailed mapping.
Our design breaks traditional boundaries by expressing natural elements in abstract forms, exploring limitless possibilities for this kindergarten.
▲ Pre-construction environment
▲ Construction process
Located at the intersection of Outer Ring West Road and Jieyuan West Road in Zhongbei Town, Xiqing District, Tianjin, Hemei International Kindergarten – Zhongbei Campus serves the surrounding districts of Xiqing, Nankai, and Hongqiao. Its convenient location and superior transport links make it easily accessible.
The kindergarten covers 15,000 square meters, including a 9,000 square meter outdoor activity area, making it currently the largest international kindergarten in Tianjin.
▲ Project location map
▲ Design concept sketches
▲ Conceptual analysis
The kindergarten’s exterior uses only three colors—blue, yellow, and orange—but their strong contrasts and dynamic shapes create a visually rich layout full of design intent.
The outdoor space is a fusion of life philosophy and art, crafting an endless realm of imagination. Through the interplay of light and shadow, it expresses boundless beauty and creative potential.
▲ Aerial view
▲ Partial aerial view
The training building’s overall design follows a linear, layered approach, creating a stable and impressive silhouette. This design divides the space into functional zones and offers a progressive, transformative experience as one moves through it.
▲ Building facade
Each window represents a dream. The kindergarten’s architecture features windows of varied sizes and heights, allowing sunlight to pour in and echo the design of the central hall, which symbolizes the sun.
From the rooftop, children can observe how architecture, culture, and nature coexist in a harmonious, irregular, and interdependent pattern—creating a spiritual retreat for the young.
▲ Exterior side view
▲ 1F Reception Hall – Children’s Play Area
Transparency and translucency blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, creating seamless integration and dialogue between the two environments.
▲ Seamless indoor-outdoor integration
▲ Harmonious blend of interior and exterior
Natural, simple wooden materials connect the kindergarten to its surroundings, embodying the theme of returning to nature’s essence.
▲ Play area
▲ Indoor play equipment
▲ Picture Book Experience Area
Returning to the origins of color, the design embraces neutral tones to explore the kindergarten’s purest charm, emphasizing simplicity and nature.
▲ Children’s sports and play area
▲ Music classroom
▲ Dance classroom
▲ Public corridors
Departing from the typical colorful kindergarten palette, white dominates the interior, accented by green plants, evoking the freshness of spring.
This clean, pure space offers a vast canvas for imagination and exploration.
▲ Corridor
The park’s planting system serves as a living curriculum for the children, evolving throughout the year with seasonal changes, plant selection, and growth cycles.
▲ Planting system in the park
▲ Children’s restroom
▲ Aerial view
▲ Outdoor space layout
▲ First floor layout
▲ Second floor layout
▲ Third floor layout
Project Information
Project Name: Tianjin Hemei International Kindergarten for Infants and Children
Project Type: Kindergarten Renovation
Location: Tianjin, China
Land Area: 8,000 square meters
Design Firm: Dika Kindergarten Design Center
Official Website: __AI_ST_URL_0__
Lead Designers: Wang Junbao, Fu Huiming, Ou Jiyong, Chen Jian, Kuang Wensheng KUN
Construction Drawing Detailing: Zhang Qi, Kuang Wensheng, Wang Peng
Rendering Detailing: Wu Lin, Wang Dongping, Cui Yingnan, Ouyang Shan
Owner: Tianjin Hemei International Kindergarten
Contact Phone: 029-85351213 / 15339175141 (Xi’an) Email: __AI_S_SC_0_ ail.com
Company Website: www.dika001.com
Photographer: Hou Bowen
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