Starlit Learning Centre: Creating a Delightful Learning Atmosphere

Empowering Learning Through Ancient Rome City Planning

In Hong Kong, children face high levels of academic pressure. Starlit Learning Centre aims to alleviate this pressure by offering a space that combines performance training with a relaxed atmosphere. To achieve this, the designers, led by Catherine Cheung, drew inspiration from Ancient Rome City Planning.

The layout of the learning centre incorporates circular elements along radiating arms, creating an axis arrangement that connects the classrooms and studios between two distinct wings. This design choice empowers the form and space of the centre, allowing for flexibility and the integration of various programs.

One of the main challenges faced by the designers was the space design of a 1m-diameter at the centre-point. However, they strategically transformed this obstacle into a focal point of the learning centre. Similar to the famous landmark Colosseo, this central area serves as a performance stage for children to act out dramas and play musical instruments. The opposite area acts as an auditorium, which can be transformed into a flexible children's playground, a parent-child interaction platform, or a waiting area for parents. Two axes radiate outward, linking the focal point to other areas of the centre. The use of circular forms throughout the design creates a familiar and welcoming environment for the children.

The designers also prioritized the incorporation of natural elements to nourish children's passion and happiness. Trees are used as shelter, providing a sense of security for the little ones. The learning centre combines familiar cityscape environments with dreamlike landscapes, creating a unique experience for local children. The main entrance features a focal column dressed with images of big tree trunks, while the floor is covered in wood texture and natural color tones. The north wing of the centre hides a full-height cabinet behind owl and tree wallpapers, allowing natural light and greenery to filter into the space. The interiors facade is adorned with joyful color numbers and cartoon skyscraper prints, symbolizing the urban city design.

Color plays a crucial role in creating a cheerful yet non-overstimulating learning environment. The designers carefully applied analogous and complementary palettes to create various moods and enhance enjoyment. Interesting patterns are printed on wallpapers, stickers, vinyl floors, and bulletin boards, creating a sequence of scenery and layering along the pathway.

The use of circular elements throughout the learning centre is based on the understanding that circles are integral to children's development. Drawing circles is an important part of their artistic maturation, providing a sense of security and safety. The learning centre utilizes circles to promote self-vision and self-awareness among the children. Circular elements can be found in the floor patterns, wall shelving, and reception area, providing sensory experiences that help children define different zones within the centre.

Two distinctive landmarks, the Studio and the "Big Kaleidoscope," are located at the ends of the two wings and are linked by radiating arms. The main pathway in the South Wing enhances the sense of adventure and exploration for children. The "Big Kaleidoscope," made of dimensional mirrors, creates a reflection that gives the illusion of a never-ending space.

Starlit Learning Centre, designed by Catherine Cheung and her team, offers a unique and innovative approach to learning. By combining performance training with a relaxed atmosphere, this learning centre provides children with a delightful and non-pressure environment to explore and grow.

Starlit Learning Centre was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in 2013 in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award recognizes the outstanding expertise and innovation demonstrated in the design, showcasing a remarkable level of excellence and introducing positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.