Qingpu Pinghe School occupies an entire city block of 50,000 square meters and resembles a small village with over 2,000 students between the ages of three and fifteen instead of residents.
In China, the concept of “mega-structures” is common, when one building tries to contain the maximum number of different functional spaces. But in this project, the architects of Open did the opposite and built a separate structure for each structure.
The complex includes a kindergarten, primary and secondary schools, arts center and library-theater in the form of a whale which we have already written about in detail. In addition, there is a building with a gym and swimming pool, as well as student dormitories.
This design concept is inspired by the African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child”. The architects tried to create an environment where there are many options for interaction and play, which they believe affects the child’s development and contributes to a richer and more diverse learning experience.
The kindergarten is in a self-contained building, and the schools are housed in facilities scattered throughout the campus. The cubic structures are slightly different: the elementary school blocks are more rounded, while the middle ones, on the contrary, are angular.
The Art Center even looks like a piece of rock with its flat faces punctuated by many windows. The building has two double-height atriums, so natural light enters every corner.
In this project, special attention was paid to the landscape: there are open learning spaces, gardens, walking paths, “wild” zones with ponds, hills and lots of trees. In addition, a 400-meter running track runs through the campus.
“The landscape has a magical power,” say the architects. – Gardens, fields, forests and ponds soften and unify the different buildings into a whole.” They also hope that children will feel welcome at this school, especially those who struggle in more institutional environments.