It's no secret that being close to nature has its benefits. It promotes relaxation and curiosity, and teaches people of all ages to appreciate the natural beauty of our world.
That was the idea behind the unique design of a kindergarten in Tachikawa, Japan. But they didn't just install big windows and gardens. They made nature the center — literally — of the school.
It all started even before the school's construction in 2007, with a popular tree. A Zelkova tree, which was about 50 years old and truly beautiful, was nearly uprooted in a typhoon. Rendered dried-out, gray, and near death, the locals sadly concluded that it would die.
But the tree had other ideas, and bounced back with a surprising vigor. Soon, it was back to its former glory, and was a popular climbing spot for kids. Because after all, climbing trees is one of those universal delights that no one outgrows, if these grown-up treehouses are any indication.
When a school was planned, the natural decision was to incorporate the beloved tree into the school itself. Tezuka Architects created a plan that put the tree right in the center.
The school was designed with kids in mind, and to encourage them to explore and to help them develop a love of nature. Take a look at some of these photos and imagine being five again!
(h/t: BoredPanda, My Modern Met)
The "Ring Around a Tree," as it's known, is located at the Fuji Kindergarten, which also incorporates trees into its design.
It's an outdoor play and exploration space for the kids.
It was designed with kids in mind, too.
While to an adult the structure only has two stories, to a small child it actually has six, thanks to little climbing areas and levels, some of which measure only three feet high.
That means kids can climb and explore secret places that only they can get to!
It also features small, easy-to-grip handrails and rubber mats to protect kids when they slip and fall.
There are also spaces enclosed by glass, so the space can even be enjoyed in the rain!
The space is open to kids during recess and while they're waiting for the bus home at the end of the school day, giving them a place to relax, play, and socialize.
The indoor spaces also double as classrooms.
Engaging in physical, imaginative play is crucial for developing minds, and this is the perfect place for it.
The rest of Fuji Kindergarten is also full of sunlight and trees. In fact, whole rooftop doubles as an outdoor play space, shaded by the leaves of surrounding trees.
As you can see, the building is actually constructed right around them.
Inside, the classrooms are airy and spacious, and have trees growing right through them!
Safety nest are installed around the living trees to prevent falls. But if you didn't know, you might think this was a park, not a school! And the kids love it!
The open, natural environment is a perfect place for stimulating young minds, and making them lifelong lovers of nature.
You can see more of this amazing school on Tezuka Architects' website, where you can also see other projects they've done celebrating nature.
If this is the kind of school you wish you'd gone to, be sure to SHARE it. Maybe we can make tree-schools a trend!
