HIBINOSEKKEI+Youji no Shiro Transforms a Commercial Building into an Inspirational Education Center

WD Kindergarten, a kindergarten renovated by HIBINOSEKKEI and Youji no Shiro, is located in the Nansha District, Guangzhou, China. The 16,000-square-meter, single-story building was completed in 2024. Initially, the building area was to be used as a commercial facility for a residential complex. It has now been turned into an educational facility for children that can accommodate 12 classrooms, a studio, special classrooms, a library, a hall, a lounge, and a dining room.

WD Kindergarten is in a neighborhood surrounded by tall buildings but still offers a view of ships sailing towards the sea from the garden area. The garden design has a wide and far visual to utilize the existing area while supporting the concept that focuses on learning, discovery, and growth through children's natural experiences while playing. The design emphasizes the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing children to learn and play in a flexible environment that stimulates curiosity. 

Courtesy by HIBINOSEKKEI 

Courtesy by HIBINOSEKKEI

Courtesy by HIBINOSEKKEI

The distinctive exterior of the old building is a curved corridor that has been transformed into a semi-open space connecting all classrooms to the garden. The unique arch casts tropical shadows that move with the light. Light and fresh air naturally flow through the open arch, maintaining harmony with the surrounding environment.

Courtesy by HIBINOSEKKEI

The garden, with its gentle slope, dynamic hills, and lush, colorful trees, is designed to support an environment that invites children to explore, learn, and discover through play. Complemented by a playhouse installation to support the children's play experience. 

Courtesy by HIBINOSEKKEI

To create an educational facility that brings children closer to nature, the architects placed the dining room in the center of the building to provide an attractive open atmosphere. The dining room emphasizes flexibility of function, so the dining room also becomes a semi-open space during spring and fall. 

Courtesy by HIBINOSEKKEI

Courtesy by HIBINOSEKKEI

Courtesy by HIBINOSEKKEI 

The materials used in this renovation include wood, metal, concrete, and specialty coatings, which were chosen to create a modern yet functional aesthetic. In addition, the use of natural materials and a soft color palette creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, supporting the children's emotional and cognitive development.

Courtesy by HIBINOSEKKEI

Courtesy by HIBINOSEKKEI

High ceilings are used in classrooms to improve air circulation and visually expand the space. HIBINOSEKKEI and Youji no Shiro added a small loft above the wet area and storage space to provide an exceptional experience for the children.