The 3D Science Studio is located inside a middle school in Foshan in an annexed part of the library. After the incorporation of the Maker Space class in the curriculums of the schools in Guangdong, Kantoor was appointed to design the workshop space. All the different program elements are placed in an open floor plan for easy control of the students by the teachers.
The overall workshop is conceived as a flexible space to fit the configurations the classes require. This request works as a general guideline in all the design aspects. The furniture selection is determined by its modularity and the lighting by its arrangement and distribution. A series of movable fixtures work as space dividers, display cabinets and benches for smaller groups discussions; these elements are complemented by the floor pattern, which marks the seating areas. As a starting point the space was divided between a public (reception and multifunction room) and a private area (maker space). Besides, the program arrangement in the maker space follows the relationship between the functions and the existing architectural elements integrating them into the design. Considering the space location and the amount of natural light it receives, the material and colour selection was considered to contrast the interior with the exterior.
As part of the design Kantoor also developed the graphic design and visual identity of the Science Studio. The logo aimed to encourage children into science with the personification of a kid in an astronaut´s helmet, travelling through different scenarios in the space with the “space dog”. They also perform the activities of the spaces where they are placed using space exploration as the main context. Additionally, to complement the topic of space exploration robots developed by NASA to explore new planets were drawn and placed in the columns.
Team:
Andrés López, Isabel Driessen
Location:
Foshan, China
Client:
Young Maker Workshop
Program:
Educational
Size:
285 m²
Status:
Completed