Oaks Academy: A STEAM-Inspired Kindergarten

Unleashing Creativity and Exploration

Oaks Academy, located in Nanshan District, Shenzhen, China, covers an area of approximately 500 square meters. It is the founding school of the STEAM program, inspired by the brand of Peking University Shenzhen Research Institute. As the only authorized cooperative institution for related kindergartens in China, Oaks Academy sets a new standard for early childhood education.

The design of Oaks Academy focuses on creating a space that encourages creativity, interaction, and learning. The interior design area spans 500 square meters, with a floor height of 4.3 meters, a structure height of 3.8 meters, and a ceiling height of 3.2 meters.

Using E0 environmental protection materials, the design ensures the use of sustainable and easily accessible materials. Fire rating above B1 guarantees the safety of the space. The project also emphasizes budget control while maintaining high-quality structural transformation. The integration of electromechanical and structural equipment facilitates effective execution, precision, and appropriateness.

One of the unique features of Oaks Academy is the combination of abstract tree-shaped walls and green gradient glass, reflecting the essence of its name. This aesthetic balance and proportion of spatial deconstructed lines create a visually appealing environment that stimulates children's imagination and creativity.

Designed as a spiritual space for exploration and practice, Oaks Academy embodies the core spirit of the STEAM program. It offers a laboratory-like experience where children can engage in hands-on activities and learn through experimentation.

The design process faced challenges in integrating the junior kindergarten and training courses into one space while maintaining the focus on the STEAM spirit. By utilizing different elements and lines, the design successfully creates a sense of ritual experience in the laboratory. The combination of the ceiling and the color of the cold steel plate shape further enhances the immersive learning environment.

Completed in July 2019, Oaks Academy opened its doors in Shenzhen, China, in September 2019. The design project was led by Alex Chiang, Creative Director, with Tony Zhang as the Project Manager, and Jasmine Huang and Ellie Wu as part of the project design team.

Oaks Academy has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2021. This prestigious award acknowledges the design's ingenuity, resourcefulness, and contribution to improving the quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.

With its STEAM-inspired design and commitment to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment, Oaks Academy sets a new benchmark for early childhood education, fostering the next generation of innovators and thinkers.