Wonderland: A Unique Experiential Learning Center

Creating a Space for Growth and Exploration

The design of Wonderland is centered around the concept of growth. The learning tree, private tree house booths, collaborative savanna, and climbing hills are all integrated into the space, representing natural elements of growth. The material and accent lighting selections further enhance this theme, creating an environment that inspires and motivates young learners.

One of the standout features of Wonderland is the Wonder Café. This space features a learning tree that serves as a free book-share program, encouraging children to explore their interests and expand their knowledge. Additionally, a computer bar is available for students to borrow devices if they do not have their own. The Wonder Café is designed to cater to a diversity of learners, with two different atmospheres of comfort and inclusion on either side of the central learning tree.

The realization of the Wonderland design utilizes advanced technology. The conceptual rendering was created using SketchUp and rendered with Enscape. Plan diagrams were exported from SketchUp and completed with Illustrator. Videos and interactive 360 panorama walkthroughs were also created to provide clients with a comprehensive view of the space. The proposed custom learning tree is designed for ease of fabrication, utilizing a CNC router and laser-cut wood screen inserts.

Wonderland is designed to repurpose an old middle school building, with the conceptual design based on the typical size and structure of a junior high school gymnasium. This repurposed space will house the Wonderland Kids Café and adjacent rooms for specialty technology instruction. The visualization provided by Barbara Young's team helps the school board envision the transformation of the existing gymnasium into a vibrant learning environment.

The Wonder Café is designed to promote interaction and engagement. Bookshelves along the outside of the learning tree create a free library, allowing children to explore various topics. The adjacent maker labs provide materials for hands-on learning in science, technology, crafts, and maker activities. The central learning tree incorporates transparent panels and laser-cut screens, ensuring safety and supervision while maintaining visibility throughout the space.

Seating options in the Wonder Café include pillow and bean bag chairs, promoting comfort and movement. The diverse seating types and privacy settings cater to the different needs and moods of the children visiting the space. The environment is technology-rich, with computers and Wi-Fi available throughout. The adjacent technology learning labs feature storefronts that reflect the activities taking place inside, connecting the learning experience to real-world applications.

The concept design for Wonderland began in July 2021 and was presented to the community school board shortly after. Currently operating in a temporary building, Wonderland aims to acquire or build a permanent home in the near future. Extensive research on pedagogy, learning styles, early childhood education, and learning spaces informed the design, ensuring that it meets the needs of young learners.

Barbara Young and her team faced several challenges during the design process. The visualization needed to be completed within a tight timeframe of two weeks, and the design had to be adaptable to different spaces while still maintaining its core elements. Despite these challenges, the final design of Wonderland successfully captures the essence of a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Wonderland's innovative design has been recognized with the prestigious Bronze A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2022. This award acknowledges the outstanding creativity and resourcefulness of the design, which incorporates best practices in art, science, design, and technology. The Wonder Café and the overall design of Wonderland contribute to improving the quality of life for children, making it a truly remarkable space for learning and growth.