Concept, Design & Children’s Experience

Design and Implementation of the Exterior Façade,
Play Area, and Interior Spaces of Kita Children’s Academy 

 

This project is the result of an integrated approach to designing child-centered spaces, where the exterior façade, play area, and interior of the academy come together as a cohesive visual narrative. The result is a small, friendly city created for children—one in which every corner offers an opportunity for imagination, interaction, and learning. At the heart of this narrative is a main character with a distinct identity: a giraffe named Kita. Interacting with other characters, Kita appears throughout all areas of the complex. As the visual signature of the project, Kita plays a key role in shaping the academy’s brand identity and creating an emotional connection between the children and the space. In the outdoor courtyard, elements such as the snack bar, a play car with a souvenir photo feature, signage for the pottery workshop, shoe storage, and notice boards are designed to be more than just decorative, serving both functional purposes and contributing to storytelling while enhancing the child’s experience.. Each element is purposefully developed to support the spatial storytelling and enrich the child’s experience, encouraging active interaction with the environment. This area is not only a place for play, but also a setting for exploration, communication, and indirect learning. Inside the building, play huts and dedicated signage for each area introduce children to a tangible, understandable, and safe world. The kitchen is designed as an educational space where children can experience basic cooking skills, responsibility, and teamwork in a creative and secure environment. This project exemplifies a holistic and meaningful design approach that simultaneously supports skill development, creativity, and education. At the same time, by creating a cohesive and distinctive visual identity, it strengthens the academy’s branding and ensures lasting impact and recognition.