KINO architects integrates nursery school into urban neighborhood in japan

adding additional space to nursery school facilities is a top priority in japanese cities. with an abundance of young children, waiting lists have become exceedingly competitive. KINO architects has designed a contemporary-style structure that encompasses elements of the surrounding neighborhood. the architects were faced with the task of creating a structure that provides a suitable solution to a problem without creating a neighborhood disturbance.

KINO architects has completed a nursery school in japan with a captivating outdoor staircase
all images by kai nakamura

located in a high-density area, KINO architects has integrated an extended foyer that crosses the oddly shaped building from end to end — creating a transitional space between the high energy children and the quiet, public street. it can also be used as a large, open play space where the children can release pent up energy. the school’s location also maintains a close proximity to a park, giving the children an outdoor space to play. overall, the structure provides a balance between confined and open spaces, that allows the neighborhood to maintain a balance between the children and the neighborhood.

the school’s location is within a densely populated city, but a quiet area

the interior features a series of skylights that span the room of the foyer, allowing natural light to enter. in collaboration with swiss artist hans-peter kistler, the architects included colorful window jambs between each skylight. the variety of colors was chosen using images of the city from google earth. each color was taken from the hues observed on the neighborhood’s roofs, physically integrating an aspect of the surrounding context into the design.

the architects’ design sought to preserve the tranquility of the neighborhood