Quanzhou Experimental Middle School

The project is located in Quanzhou, China, formerly known as Citong, an important port along the Maritime Silk Road. Situated within a high-density urban plan, the overall compact design not only adheres to local regulations regarding sunlight and building spacing but also places a strong emphasis on arts and sports in the school's curriculum.



The design concept revolves around the harmony of sea and sky, with a combination of deep ocean blue and pure white, resembling the rolling waves. The teaching building features a predominantly white color volume with intermittent infusions of blue and gray, creating a clean and dynamic architectural image. In contrast, the dormitory building incorporates vibrant, lively colors in selected areas, fostering an energetic and warm living atmosphere. The architectural layout integrates standard classrooms, versatile art studios, and platform galleries within a single building.



While satisfying the client's preference for a dignified architectural image, the design also aims to create a building character that encourages the vibrant individuality of adolescents. The building façade adheres to Baroque design principles, presenting distinct rhythms and cadences from various perspectives, and drive people to walk around. Sculptural elements at corner positions serve as transitions and transformations. The overall facade design balancing the architectural weight, sense of suspension, and repetitive patterns. For instance, the western façade features an artistic and activity-oriented corridor, with dynamic art classrooms nested within a white, square volume, maintaining a sense of architectural integrity. Meanwhile, the blue colors in the negtive space showcase interwoven staircases and varying platform heights, accentuating the connectivity of different functional spaces within the teaching building and enhancing overall continuity. As students and teachers traverse the track on the playground, the vertical white louvers of the art classrooms create a dynamic visual effect akin to sparkling ocean waves, thanks to the Moiré pattern effect caused by sunlight.



Ultimately, by thoughtfully selecting building materials and construction methods, the project achieves a balance between meeting a modest construction budget and ensuring a commendable building.