Under the Tree: An Innovative Learning Center

Designers Daisuke Nagatomo and Minnie Jan Create a Nature-Inspired Educational Space

The primary inspiration for the Hsin Yi Kids Learning Center was to create an atmosphere that brings children closer to nature. The designers aimed to provide a comfortable and relaxing environment for children aged between 1 to 6 years old. The center's design emphasizes the texture of natural materials, with a focus on a large tree made of wood and paper, situated over a market-play area. The tree's branches and leaves are made from CNC cut honeycomb section cardboard sheets, adding a touch of realism to the structure.

Most components of the learning center are handcrafted by skilled carpenters. However, CNC fabrication technology was used to create the main tree, the focal point of the design. The use of 8 mm honeycomb cardboard as a CNC medium allowed for delicate digital fabrication, resulting in a tree that is both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.

The learning center, which spans 85 square meters with a 3.7-meter ceiling height, offers various activities for children. They can role-play, read books, solve puzzles, and play on slides. The design encourages children to explore their sense of touch and feeling, a sensory experience often overlooked in traditional kindergarten education systems in Taiwan.

The project, which ran from December 2014 to March 2016, was a significant undertaking. The designers faced challenges in creating a child-friendly space, with careful consideration given to every detail. Material selection was particularly critical to ensure that children would not come into contact with hazardous chemical materials in construction components.

The Hsin Yi Kids Learning Center is not just an educational institute; it is a testament to innovative design. The project has been recognized for its creativity and professional excellence, winning the Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2017. This accolade is awarded to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation, and evoke positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

In conclusion, "Under the Tree" is a shining example of how design can transform educational spaces, making them more engaging and stimulating for children. It is a testament to the power of design and the importance of considering the user's experience in every aspect of a project. The success of this project serves as a reminder of the potential of design to shape our world and influence our experiences.