After School: A Shared Residential Space for Kids

Designers Tsung-Ju Lu and Lin Tsai-Wen Create a Unique After-School Environment

The inspiration for the 'After School' project stems from the designers' recognition of the social issue of after-school care for children. The designers, who are also parents, faced the challenge of balancing their professional lives with the need to provide a nurturing environment for their children after school. Instead of resorting to traditional cram schools, they decided to create a shared space that could serve as an after-school haven for their children and their classmates.

The 'After School' project stands out for its unique approach to solving the issue of after-school care. The designers have transformed an ideal space into an engaging and safe environment for children. The space features a treehouse-like ceiling, an open layout, large curtain glass windows that bring in natural light, and a bookcase created by different floor-level heights. The space also offers various living experience courses, providing children with a diverse range of learning opportunities.

The design was realized using a variety of materials and techniques. The large curtain glass windows allow for natural light to fill the space, while the treehouse-like ceiling adds to the atmosphere of the secret site. The open layout increases the activity area, and the use of high-transparent and reflective materials ensures that there are no dangerous corners. The different floor-level heights are used to define the space and distinguish between different programs, adding to the overall delight of the space.

The 'After School' project is more than just a space; it's a concept that encourages learning, experiencing, and sharing. The designers have organized parents to design various courses outside the range of traditional textbooks, such as cooking, pottery, picture book reading, painting, and exercising. These courses are then integrated into the space, creating an interesting and safe environment for children to enjoy after school.

The 'After School' project is a testament to the power of design in addressing social issues. By creating a shared space that caters to the needs of both children and parents, Tsung-Ju Lu and Lin Tsai-Wen have provided a unique solution to the challenge of after-school care. Their innovative approach has not only earned them the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2020 but also the admiration and appreciation of parents and children alike.