More open teaching methods have been gradually gaining prominence alongside the traditional, more indoctrinating practices. Such open-ended teaching benefits not only from indoor classrooms, but also from outdoor teaching areas.

For the Longyuan School in the Longgang district of Shenzhen, architects Zhubo Design-AAO and interior designers H Design designed for a nature-friendly and open teaching environment. The school (which is affiliated with the Central China Normal University) serves nine year levels. Its L-shaped configuration of classrooms, lecture theatre, gymnasium, staff dormitory, canteen and office buildings host lessons for 3,360 students.

The designers utilised the limited urban space and incorporated the unique regional culture to create a school for the new era of education. The school has a number of different and flexible spaces, a whimsical and engaging physical design, and luscious green spaces. In particular, inspiration was drawn from the combination of corridors and alleys in traditional Chinese architecture.

H Design began their work on the interiors by studying the curriculum, teaching methods and psychology of the nine different grades taking lessons at the school. They found that primary school students benefited from a diverse range of spaces with playful designs. As students get older, however, they need quiet places for independent self-study as well social spaces for group activities.

Similar teaching units that require similar conditions – such as light or noise levels – have been placed together. The offices are placed close to the entrance while the canteen is on the opposite corner with easy access to external deliveries as well as the rest of the campus. 

Student areas form a number of differently shaped courtyards and open areas. They are joined by irregular ramps, corridors and steps. These common areas also feature small and large communication spaces. “This enriches the corridors’ space morphology and also reduces the interference of the stadium to the teaching area,” the designers say. “Children stroll, play, meet, communicate and discuss here, making learning a fun way of life.” This social corridor was inspired by traditional Chinese architecture.

The campus has five major colour schemes inspired by gold, wood, water, fire and earth. Outdoor teaching spaces, music, art and dance classrooms, as well as sports venues, are situated around a central green valley. With platforms situated among the undulating grass slopes, the designers created a unique learning environment. The landscape also links the first-floor courtyard with a platform on the second floor. 

Photography by Su Shengliang and Wu Qingshan.

Grab the latest copy of Indesign magazine – the ‘Knowledge Economy’ issue. And sign up for our weekly dose of design here.