continuous loops and internal courts:
BAU603 Suzhou kindergarten no. 3

continuous loops and internal courts: Suzhou kindergarten no. 3

Learning from perimeter block typology, this kindergarten explores public and private edges, smart loops of programmed circulation, and vernacular architecture. It provides formal teaching and informal learning environments, in a critically regional response.

Courtyard, Verandah, Backyard + Cubby House

A large courtyard serves as a green focus for the kindergarten. Surrounding this is a continuous verandah allowing circumnavigation sheltered from rain and sun. An operable glazed wall connects the courtyard and verandah to the internal circulation loop. The back-yard of the kindergarten provides more intimate play space into which eight classrooms spill. Learning from the Chinese garden programmed walls, a 50 metre long cubby house provides endless loopy play opportunities in a child scaled space. Underground parking wraps around the courtyard allowing for future planting of large crowned trees.

Loop

The loop is a lineal plaza, a playful space wide enough for teachers to stage exhibitions, build play spaces, play games and more. The loop is the primary circulation and connects to all rooms on all floors, eliminating the need for dead end corridors. Half the time it overlooks the courtyard, the other half it looks out to the world. Bands of colour in the floor reduce the scale of the corridor for its little users and provide a loose framework for games. The loop is expressed as a colourful elevated ribbon, distinct from the anchored classroom buildings.