The rounded buildings of the new preschool in Fuji, Japan, are reminiscent of soap bubbles, with each little bubble forming one room, with one function and no internal partition walls. Round buildings are often criticised for being difficult to furnish and having a structure that is complex to build. But according to Tezuka Architects, there are also many benefits. Above all, the sight lines around the preschool are excellent, since the design makes it easy to see between the various volumes. This is one of the most important requirements at a preschool, where staff always need to keep an eye on the children. The shape also encourages imagination and movement in the children.
The volumes are all made of wood, which is exposed in the parasol-like ceilings to show how the glulam beams hold up the structure by meeting in the middle, like the petals of a flower. Last year the design won the prize for best school building at the World Architecture Festival.
Read more at tezuka-arch.com
