Given a cellar space with little light and a convoluted plan, we settled on tunnel-like corridor that twists and turns from the reception area to the playground in the back.

The idea of the tunnel came from the nearby water tunnels that feed NYC. As it meanders through the space, it spills into the rooms on each side, giving the spaces a playful character.

The color and sleek look of the tunnel is from the association we made between the NYC water tunnels and water slides, since this is a space for children.

In each classroom. most surfaces are white due to the lack of natural light. The walls are coated so that they can be drawn on like a white board.

Cubbies are provided with individual drawer fronts that are painted by the children. They can take these home at the end of the semester.