Children learn through discovering and playing. In this Infant and Toddler Discovery Centre, it is intended to be a discovery space for toddlers to play and explore. Starting with a rectangular floor plan, we introduce two wonder “stones” in the space, creating a fluid negative space around which children can wander and explore.

The two stones are carved out to form different learning spaces and embedded with play equipment for children to learn, climb and play; they also define the central plaza as a communal space for the little ones to gather and large group activities. An elevated net is connected to the two stones, allowing children to go from one stone to the other at a higher level, giving children a multi-level experience. The play structures vary in height, encouraging children to move vertically and also horizontally.

There are secretive passage ways going up, down and through the stones, creating a playful environment encourages curious kids to adventure through climbing, crawling, sliding and searching. There are also perforations and openings in the stones, allowing children to peek out from the stone and interact with the children around the stone.

A complex circulation system is designed to develop an exploration journey for children to learn through physical and mindful play. It is a place with no dead ends where children are encouraged to explore and discover the space freely through climbing, sliding and searching in and around the two stones.

Soft pink and green colors have been chosen for the floor, extending to the walls and cabinets on three sides, immersing the two stones in a colorful environment. On the other hand, the play equipment embedded in the stones are in contrasting colours to celebrate the playful moments. Floor of different areas are differentiated with different colours. This is to indicate that each area has its own purpose, helping children to learn visually and spatially.

Varying profiles, feature motif and layers of colours are introduced in the wall and cabinet to imitate as rock layers in a playful manner. The wall motifs are also extended to the shoe changing area, bringing children to this wonderland at their very start of their journey when stepping in the school.