Capu Capu Forest Kindergarten: A Design Inspired by Nature

Bringing the Beauty of Nature to Early Education

This kindergarten stands out from traditional educational institutions by providing children with the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature from the age of zero. The design of the Capu Capu Forest Kindergarten reflects this focus on nature and the concept of expressing the purity of a child's spirit.

Takako Masuki, the designer behind this project, wanted to create a design that was both solid and simple. To achieve this, she utilized Risograph printing and chose rough paper commonly used in Japanese schools. This not only added a tactile element to the design but also worked within the project's limited budget.

The design includes a logo that is used across various mediums, such as flyers, signs, name cards, and online media. The logo itself is a paper cutout-like form, keeping the shape simple to leave room for creativity. It incorporates various creatures that children may encounter in the forest, adding a touch of whimsy and wonder.

The flyer, printed on A5 size rough paper using Risograph, showcases the unique qualities of the Capu Capu Forest Kindergarten. The front and back pages are printed in two colors, while the inside pages are printed in one color, creating a visually appealing and cohesive design.

Throughout the design process, Takako Masuki conducted extensive research. She delved into nature-themed kindergartens and schools, particularly focusing on Denmark, known for its forest kindergartens. Additionally, she personally experienced a customer's kindergarten with her own child, gaining firsthand insight into the importance of nature in early education.

Despite the challenges faced during the design process, such as creating limited colors to maintain a simple and unadorned atmosphere, the Capu Capu Forest Kindergarten design successfully captures the essence of childhood and the beauty of nature.

Recognized for its excellence, the Capu Capu Forest Kindergarten design was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2022. This prestigious award is given to designs that meet professional and industrial requirements, showcasing practicality, innovation, and adherence to industry best practices.

With its focus on nature, simplicity, and the wonder of childhood, the Capu Capu Forest Kindergarten design by Takako Masuki is a testament to the importance of incorporating the natural world into early education.