PIXY HALL by Moriyuki Ochiai Architects

PIXY HALL by Moriyuki Ochiai Architects is an engaging multi-purpose space in Kanagawa, Japan for kindergarteners to play and learn. The project won the Japan Kids Design Award in 2010.

The playground's brightly colored shapes and tiny spaces to climb under and over look like plenty of fun for the little ones, while its overall clean and simple aesthetic would probably look cool to anyone at any age. Additionally, the PIXY HALL creates an open, welcoming environment that's perfect for nursery activities and other educational programs for the children and their parents. Ah, the carefree days of childhood...

Scroll down to see the images and project text that the architect shared with us.

"Project data

Project Name: PIXY HALL
Design Firm:  Moriyuki Ochiai Architects
Location: Kanagawa, Japan
Use:  Kindergarten
Area : 90 sqm
Photo: atsushi ishida / nacasa & partners
Client: Piccolino Kindergarten

It is an interior of kindergarten which is specific for art education. The plan proposes a multi-purpose space to carry out regular nursery activities as well as special activities for both children and adults such as concerts, performances, exhibitions and workshops for children."

"Therefore, by installing playground equipment shaped like a big mountain, which prompt various activities, I aimed to create a space where children and adults can expand their imagination.

The mountain shape prompts a variety uses, such as seats for concerts, a stage for dance and theatrical performances or a display area for exhibitions by artists and children."

"The height difference between adults and children brings about different ways to perceive and enjoy this environment while promoting communication between them.

A surface used as a counter by adults placed at child's height appears as a consecutive arch over houses to children. From a kid's perspective, the mountain rises from the clouds changing gradually from white to brown while adults looking down from the top of the mountain can see the clouds floating below.

Spaces with different qualities abound in and out of the mountain, where colorful triangular chairs can be assembled to create one's own place and discover new uses to one's surroundings.

This environment develops the imagination, expression, communication and creativity skills of children and adults alike."

"(The same setting can be equally enjoyed by children and their parents who see and use their surroundings according to different scales of perception.

This space has the flexibility to accommodate events where local residents of all ages can gather, strengthening the bonds between parents and offspring, their families and other members of the community.)"

All images courtesy of Moriyuki Ochiai Architects.
To learn more, click here.

Don't forget to check out the thumbnail gallery for more images.