Yoshifumi Shimizu, Sayaka Mohri (Architects Office SOU)
Takaaki Koga (Utsunomiya University)

This project involves the redevelopment of a kindergarten situated within the same campus as an educational institution that includes an elementary school, junior high school, and senior high school. The primary objective of this redevelopment is to create a learning environment that aligns with the principles of Montessori education, which emphasize fostering children’s autonomy, encouraging self-directed learning, and supporting holistic growth. By integrating a diverse range of thoughtfully designed spaces, such as open classrooms, a “learning forest,” and various other engaging areas, the project aspires to cultivate an atmosphere rich in opportunities for discovery, creativity, and interaction.