HIBINOSEKKEI + Youji no Shiro + KIDS DESIGN LABO Creating Flood-Proof Kindergartens and Nurseries

HIBINOSEKKEI, together with Youji no Shiro and KIDS DESIGN LABO, collaborated to address the flooding problem at AKM Kindergarten and Preschool through architectural aspects. Located in Ashikita-gun, Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, the school's landscape was once flooded by a river overflowing during heavy rains. Resulting in the need for redevelopment with a safer landscape. 

The construction process engaged the architectural team of HIBINOSEKKEI, Youji no Shiro, and KIDS DESIGN LABO to create an educational facility to protect children from flooding without alienating them from nature. The top layer of the building site was laid with soil to adjust the height to reach two meters above the ground while maintaining the undulating shape of the natural landscape. 

Credit by Ryuji Inoue

Credit by Ryuji Inoue

Credit by Ryuji Inoue

“Based on the concept of a typical landscape where the sea and mountains intersect, we intended to create a kindergarten where buildings and gardens intersect, so that children can easily get close to nature.” The architects said. 

The park's undulating design encourages children to move and play while practicing early socialization skills. It stimulates their curiosity about nature and the environment. In addition, children's physical activity indirectly prepares them for disasters because they are familiar with the surrounding landscape and tend to be physically agile. The closeness between children and nature positively impacts raising awareness of environmental conservation. Children can also better experience natural elements when outdoors.

Credit by Ryuji Inoue

Credit by Ryuji Inoue

The interior of each room has a different and interesting color theme to give each space its character. The use of wooden elements is maximized to create a comfortable environment. Part of the walls and ceilings are made of wood to control air humidity, and the floors are made of wood to enhance the relaxation effect. 

Credit by Ryuji Inoue

Credit by Ryuji Inoue

Credit by Ryuji Inoue

To create sustainable architecture, the wide floor plan is shaped like the letter U and faces outward with large openings. This allows maximum natural daylight and air to enter. The inside and outside of the building are connected by a “terrace swimming pool” that children can enjoy playing in. In addition, the evaporation of water from the swimming pool can become cold air entering the building, which is an alternative to air conditioning.

Credit by Ryuji Inoue

The children's dining room is in the space between the inside and outside, creating an unrestricted connection between the inside and outside spaces. Children can enjoy mealtimes comfortably while experiencing the changing seasons and weather firsthand. This approach not only enhances children's engagement with their environment but also supports their physical and emotional development.

Credit by Ryuji Inoue

The building's historic-like visuals open the community to the space, creating a safe and comfortable place for children to grow. AKM Kindergarten and Nursery creates this safe space without compromising its visual appeal or functionality as an educational facility.

Credits by HIBINOSEKKEI + Youji no Shiro + Kids Design Labo