Situated on the western side of Fengxian New City, a suburban area of Shanghai, Fengpu Elementary School emerges as a symbol of renewal within a transformed urban setting. The site, once an industrial district, has evolved into a thriving residential zone. Embraced by a new fence wall, showcasing a pseudo-classic style, the school encapsulates a centuries-old ginkgo tree and a vintage building from the 1970s, forming a unique enclave.
Design Philosophy: Complexity and Harmony
Fengpu Elementary School’s design grapples with two pivotal questions. Firstly, how does one approach architecture in the midst of urban rejuvenation? Secondly, how can a space be crafted to enhance the daily school experience for children? These inquiries lay the groundwork for an architectural endeavor marked by spatial complexity and harmony.
Vibrant Exterior, Serene Interior
The building’s exterior boasts a vibrant and colorful surface, contributing to the new identity of the evolving urban landscape. In contrast, the inner spaces adopt a calming gray palette, fostering a quiet environment conducive to focused study. This deliberate divergence between the interior and exterior creates a distinctive yet interconnected architectural narrative.
Spatial Organization: Balancing Collective and Individual
Focusing on a dual structure that balances collective and individual needs, the school organizes classrooms into two courtyards, representing models of collective space. Positioned on the east side and overlooking a serene stream, these courtyards harmonize with the natural surroundings. Public spaces such as the library, sports hall, and canteen find their place on the west side, seamlessly connected to the playground.
Dynamic After-Class Environment
A shared platform, formed by ground-floor courtyards and first-floor terraces, offers an enticing after-class environment. Ramps and free spaces blend seamlessly, creating an attractive space where children can run and play freely, fostering a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.
Coexisting with Heritage
The school navigates its relationship with the centuries-old ginkgo tree and pseudo-classic courtyard, choosing not to replicate but to coexist in a contemporary manner. The colorful flat surfaces act as a backdrop against the vintage neighbor, while an overhanging corridor, featuring seats facing outward, becomes a scenic spot for enjoying the landscape. Fengpu Elementary School encapsulates the architect’s profound reflection on the Chinese school environment and serves as a testament to navigating the complexities of suburban Shanghai’s urban renewal journey.
