net playground + cozy nooks spark curiosity in HIBINOSEKKEI + youji no shiro's XCG nursery

XCG Nursery by HIBINOSEKKEI and Youji no Shiro in china

HIBINOSEKKEI + Youji no Shiro breathed new life into an old warehouse in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China, transforming it into a vibrant nursery school named XCG Nursery. Situated amidst the old town’s ambiance, with a nearby nursing home and remnants of the Guangzhou Paper Mills, the location carries a nostalgic feel. Originally a single-story structure with high ceilings and skylights, the building underwent modifications to accommodate a loft extension while maximizing natural light. The concept focused on integrating sunlight into daily activities, achieved by creating an atrium with skylights. By adjusting the layout of the loft classrooms, sunlight now reaches the ground floor, allowing children to experience the natural changes of light, weather, and seasons as they learn and play. Teachers facilitate interactions with nature, fostering a deeper connection to the environment.

all images by HIBINOSEKKEI

Reimagining Roof Heights for Children’s Spaces

To fully utilize the distinctive gabled roof, the team at HIBINOSEKKEI (more here) + Youji no Shiro (here) embraced its open space by opting not to cover it with ceiling finishing materials. This decision allowed for higher ceilings and the utilization of different roof heights to carve out areas for classrooms, a net playground, and a cozy library corner, blending expansive openness with cozy nooks cherished by children. Additionally, they have installed a three-dimensional net playground that extends through the second floor, enhancing play possibilities. Drawing inspiration from the industrial legacy of the previous paper mill, the design elements, including restroom booths, wall materials, and classroom signage, reflect this heritage, fostering a connection with the community. By prioritizing openness and minimizing obstructions, the design encourages children to engage with nature, fostering a sense of curiosity and appreciation for natural changes. ‘We aim to create a nursery that allows students to develop an attachment to their hometown by adding local elements.’

open and unobstructed spaces encourage children to engage with nature

a net playground equipment that penetrates through the second floor allows for three-dimensional playdesign elements, from restroom booths to wall materials, pay homage to the area’s paper mill heritage, fostering community connection

the absence of ceiling finishing materials highlights the raw simplicity of the structurevarying heights of the gable roof blend openness with hidden spots