Beyond Four Walls

Human development is profoundly shaped during the critical formative years between zero and six, where experiences lay the groundwork for future achievements. This notion dates back to the 19th century when the academic Friedrich Froebel introduced the term ‘kindergarten,’ guided by his belief that play and interaction with nature create an optimal setting for early childhood education. Froebel asserted that through direct, independent engagement with their surroundings, children can effectively construct their understanding and cultivate the skills necessary to thrive.

In response, we have developed a series of design guidelines for playful, nature-centric education spaces, which have been applied to a portfolio of projects globally. At the core of this concept lies the belief that architecture can foster joyful discovery across a spectrum of environments, from indoor to transitional and outdoor spaces, and through diverse tactile textures and spatial characteristics, encompassing both form and function, aiming to spark curiosity. A socially-oriented architectural plan can facilitate connections and seamlessly integrate nature by blending different spatial typologies. This integration promotes physical activity and enhances overall well-being, counterbalancing the adverse effects of the pandemic and the digital age.

"The dynamic and biophilic planning of a kindergarten equips children with the ability to foster confidence within a secure ‘urban’ setting on a small scale, with implications for their development on a broader level later in life," elaborates LAVA Partner Chris Bosse. “It contributes to a networked learning development rather than a hierarchical transmission of information. After all, what understanding of the world can we expect young minds to cultivate within a rigid and bleak learning environment disconnected from nature?”

This ethos drove the design for a new kindergarten in Vietnam created by LAVA in collaboration with local architects Module K and designers Viet Décor. Located in Vinh, near Hanoi, next to the Goong Lake and its lush surrounding forest, the Eco Kindergarten caters to 750 children from 12 months to six years. Three semicircular buildings over three levels are linked by Y-shaped bridges and woven with interstitial outdoor play gardens. “The chosen geometries, comprising semi-circular wings, were arranged to provide each room with an external garden, connected by internal pathways. This design strategy fosters a symbiotic relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, with each courtyard serving a distinct purpose and program,” explains Bosse.

Nature-infused and daylight-filled classrooms are naturally ventilated and connected via a ‘central boulevard’ for ease of circulation while learning activities are translated into ‘quarters’—such as music, cooking, art, a swimming pool, and sports center—each with a slightly different expression. A similar integration of nature and activity-based zoning can be observed at LIFE Hamburg, where this concept is further amplified through a comprehensive intergenerational learning campus. Designed as a performative ecosystem, indoor and outdoor spaces intertwine, fostering a cohesive biophilic environment grounded in permaculture principles.

Research shows that much of a child’s early education unfolds outside the classroom, and enhancing a child’s emotional and spiritual connection with nature is essential to addressing the climate crisis. In line with these conclusions, LAVA integrated Feng shui elements into each outdoor space to heighten exploration: earth-inspired sand pits, water features in interactive fountains, fire symbolized by a miniature kitchen, metal incorporated into playground equipment, and wood integrated into the landscaping.

Inside, biophilia is nurtured through natural materials such as plywood, seen in the flowing ribbed ceilings and custom furniture. Low-tech construction methods further amplify this connection with timber and bricks sourced locally. Creative expression is encouraged through dynamic shapes that serve various functions and window frames reminiscent of submarine portholes painted in bold primary colors of varying scales. “The kindergarten represents a microcosm where children explore and learn about their environment, fostering a broad and varied approach to education beyond traditional classroom settings. Optimal learning environments offer diverse settings, including outdoor, transitional, and indoor spaces, each imbued with varying spatial qualities such as softness, solidity, and fluidity,” Bosse concludes.