Daping Township, located in Tianquan County, Ya’an City, Sichuan Province, experiences a humid and rainy climate. Traditionally a rural area dominated by terraced farming, the kindergarten is situated beside the local rural primary school. Currently, the campus and the village environment are separated, inspiring us to rethink our design approach. Our vision is for the kindergarten to transcend its boundaries, embrace the natural environment, and rekindle the emotional ties to the hometown.
Site Overview
The kindergarten is built on a multi-level terrace with a 4-meter elevation difference from north to south. The design divides the space into two levels: the upper level connects directly to the village, while the lower level opens out to the surrounding fields.
The architectural layout reflects the “homeland” concept, recreating the traditional rural settlement pattern. Individual living units are designed as “prototype rural houses,” representing personal homes, which are then combined to form a village. The gaps between buildings are oriented towards the distant fields, enhancing the connection with nature.
At the heart of the village is a circular plaza that serves as a communal gathering space for the kindergarten and the wider community. Surrounding this plaza is a lightweight circular corridor that offers varied experiences during both rainy and sunny days. By integrating the kindergarten into the rural fabric, the project creates a new landscape that embodies the spirit of the countryside. The iconic “home” structure at the pathway’s end injects a sense of ceremony into children’s daily journey to school.
A circular pathway connects the various areas of the park, continuously leading back to the fields. Beginning at the central plaza, a gentle slope encloses a sandpit and a water play area at the upper level. At the base of the slope lies a running track that passes under an elevated corridor, creating a sheltered play space for rainy days. The path then ascends back to the circular plaza via an outdoor staircase.
The pathway’s surface uses diverse materials tailored to support various stages of children’s development, encouraging physical activity and exploration through play. One section of the site preserves the original terraced fields as a biological park, enriching the educational experience with nature.
The design of boundaries balances separation and connection. The entrance is framed by a vibrant brick-red wall, while a white perforated wall lines the village road. Along the edge adjoining the farmland, the wall is kept low, resembling a guardrail. This approach to boundaries integrates the kindergarten as a spiritual anchor, fostering children’s understanding of their hometown’s culture and nature, as well as strengthening community bonds.
Project Drawings
△ General Layout Plan
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Basement Floor Plan
△ Axonometric Diagram
△ Section Diagram
△ Detailed Drawing
Project Information
Architectural Design: Dongyi Architecture
Area: 924 m²
Project Year: 2020
Photographer: Nanshe Architecture
Lead Architects: Xiao Yiqiang, Xiao Yizhi, Zou Yanting
Design Team: Lin Hankun, Yin Shi, Zhan Qiaosheng, Yang Yuanjing, Zhang Zongpeng, Huang Lili, Qiu Tian, Guo Fangjie, Huang Feiya, Hai Shan, Li Zheng
Principal: Shenzhen One Foundation Public Welfare Foundation
Structural Design: Sichuan Gaodi Engineering Design Consulting Co., Ltd
Location: Ya’an, China
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