Playground school

Human migration, population growth, and the search for new development models led to a growing need for fast yet high-quality construction of schools and kindergartens.
Based on a modular school design system, we developed Playground School — a combined school and kindergarten.

The concept is built around the following principles:

• Environmental and economic efficiency (self-sufficient building systems, use of local materials)

• Rapid construction enabled by prefabricated technologies

• Seamless integration with nature:
  In this school, landscaping replaces traditional corridors. Nature becomes an essential part of both the architecture and the educational process.

Using standardized classroom modules tailored for each age group — kindergarten, primary, middle, and high school — we created flexible, scalable units. Modular production accelerates construction and enables easy expansion of the school when needed.

We created an environment that promotes both movement and play — the core modes of learning at this age.

Nadezhda Fedotova, Founder of the architectural studio NF

Classrooms are grouped by age around a central courtyard, which serves as a space for socialization, play, and movement. This solution eliminates the need for additional construction volume such as corridors and recreational areas. Thus, the school becomes a Playground School — full of movement, play, and interaction — a school that is part of the landscape.

Module structures can be made from various materials, allowing each project to have a customized facade. Engineering systems are integrated into the architecture. For example, solar panels on the roof provide electricity to the building. Ventilation and air conditioning systems are discreetly installed, with external equipment located in a special room within one of the module clusters. Access is provided via a hidden door with built-in ventilation grilles for air intake. The roof overhang on the glazed side not only creates a terrace where children can play but also helps prevent overheating of the interior.

Classroom technology is also standardized according to the developmental needs of each age group. Each classroom is a multifunctional space that accommodates the full range of educational activities. Teachers can rearrange the furniture depending on the lesson format.

The administrative block includes a minimal yet sufficient set of rooms to ensure comfort for staff and teachers. A shared open-space teacher’s area allows for collaboration. Meeting rooms are also provided for staff discussions and project work.

This project was developed as a modern prototype school, balancing speed with thoughtful design. It also allows for rapid expansion of the educational complex without the need for additional design work and with reduced construction costs.