Situated in Xinyang Huangchuan County, Henan Province, the Pony School is a testament to the innovative transformation led by L&M Design Lab. With a focus on preserving the existing building while infusing playful elements, this elementary school renovation stands out in the midst of the bustling residential developments surrounding it.

Preserving Urban Character in a Compact Setting

Nestled amid high-rise residential neighborhoods on a compact site, the Pony School echoes the urban landscape, providing a unique juxtaposition to the nearby vast fields. The challenge was to navigate the constraints of the existing structure while infusing it with elements that would resonate with the essence of small-town life.

Revitalizing Spaces: The Red Armillary Sash

The school, enclosed on three sides, presented a design challenge, creating a sense of isolation from the leisure and nature of small-town life. The design approach involved meticulous renovations to salvage the existing structure, transforming it into a haven loved by children. A significant thread connecting public spaces within the school is the “Red Armillary Sash,” a dynamic element that weaves through the architecture.

Playful Integration: The Blue Pony’s Journey

A whimsical touch is added with the presence of a blue pony, symbolizing playfulness and freedom. The U-shaped layout embraces a rooftop terrace turned children’s playground, adorned with zebra stripes. The design aims to provide a safe and enjoyable space for children during recess, fostering a connection between the architecture and the joy of play.

Innovative Spatial Changes

The “Red Armillary Sash” undergoes changes, connecting various school spaces, including the main entrance, stormy playground, and second-floor foyer. The dynamic slide, winding staircase, and outdoor transportation staircase redefine the school’s circulation, adding functionality and aesthetic appeal. These innovative changes inject vibrancy into the school’s atmosphere, creating memorable experiences for the students.

Embracing the Countryside Aesthetic

Materials like red bricks, earthbags, gravel, and painted patterns are used to ground the campus, embracing the aesthetics of the countryside. The choice of common and inexpensive building materials reflects a conscious effort to maintain a connection with the local environment while keeping costs under control.

A Childhood Rooted in Nature

Unlike the competitive early education environment in urban areas, the Pony School offers children in the county a chance to grow at their own pace. Just like the ponies resting after play, the children here experience a complete and pure childhood, immersed in the carefree freedom of the wild. The Pony School stands as a testament to the belief that education can coexist harmoniously with the surrounding environment, fostering a generation that grows up rooted in nature.