Kensington Learning Space introduces an innovative concept for children’s environments, combining learning, play, and natural elements. Situated on the outskirts of Bangkok, the site’s ordinary surroundings inspired a unique architectural approach to create a distinct atmosphere.
The facility is divided into two primary functional zones: classrooms and gyms. Each space varies in size and function, designed to seamlessly integrate with the natural environment, allowing abundant daylight and views of greenery through the windows.
The building’s oval shape features an atrium that offers natural views from both sides of every room. Room sizes fluctuate to meet different functional needs: spacious areas at the front accommodate a sports complex, while narrower sections at the rear serve as classrooms.
This distinctive form is designed to captivate children’s attention and inspire learning. A continuous ribbon-like strip stretches from floor to roof, transforming the building into an enormous play structure that invites exploration.
Inside, various spaces cater to specific needs. A semi-open area beneath the gym houses a swimming pool, featuring smooth transitions from walls to ceiling and a touch of greenery at the far end, creating a cave-like environment that sparks children’s sense of adventure.
The column-free large space is tailored for physical activities, offering flexible use and a free, open area for play. Classrooms in the narrower sections bring children closer to nature, encouraging learning amidst the lush surroundings.
The ribbon-like space folds from floor to ceiling with a dynamic, curved form designed to stimulate and enhance children’s learning experiences. The lower curved section serves as a free activity area connected to the reception and café.
An inclined plane links to the second floor, featuring a slide that adds playful functionality. Mesh “trees” extend from floor to ceiling, penetrating the second level, while a hidden space beneath the slope invites children to play hide and seek.
The upper curved area functions as an auditorium for performances and parent-teacher meetings, with tiered seating integrated along the building’s contours.
Outside, the ribbon-like structure extends seamlessly from ground level to the rooftop garden, providing an engaging play area. Multiple stepped terraces accommodate a variety of games simultaneously, fostering a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
The entire design blends harmoniously with the surrounding greenery, creating a natural setting that encourages both learning and play within nature.
Project Drawings
△ Site Base
△ First Floor Plan
△ Second Floor Plan
△ Third Floor Plan
△ Roof Plan
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Elevation Drawing
△ Section Diagram
△ Section Diagram
△ Functional Zoning – First Floor
△ Functional Zoning – Second Floor
△ Functional Zoning – Third Floor
△ Functional Zoning – Roof
△ Shape Generation Diagram
Project Information
Architectural Design: Plan Architect
Area: 4,000 square meters
Year of Completion: 2020
Photographer: Ketsiree Wongwan
Suppliers: SCG, SK Kaken, TOA, WDC, WILLY
Lead Architects: Wara Jithpratugs, Premprajak Teyarajkul
Client: Kensington International Kindergarten
Structural Engineers: Prawit Phanwiroj, Arthit Petchsasithon, Nattapon Wathanamunkong
Location: Thailand
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