Jointly launched and built by Zhang Zheng and his friends, the project is a children's learning center nestled on the east side of the central Shangling Village, at the foot of the mountains in the Jiulongfeng nature reserve. The building was intended to foster a sense of community among the local villagers, with their active engagement in various aspects, such as site clearance, assist measuring, and construction work.
To preserve the traditional carpentry techniques of Huizhou, the existing simple and crude longhouse was renovated with the help of local master carpenters by using locally sourced fir wood. The plinth beams and roof were constructed by traditional approach. Another important part of the project is a specially designed activity area for children, which features a unique cabin-shaped structure that is smoothly enveloped with a fluid sense. It allows kids to play with their friends in a relaxing atmosphere. The futuristic complicated architecture was totally built by local villagers. Despite facing challenges during the construction process, the designers successfully communicated and collaborated with the villagers to overcome each obstacle in a reasonable manner.
Once put into use, the children's learning center values aspects such as:
1. Community cooperation: The children's learning center strives to work closely with local village communities and institutions to collaboratively provide the best experience for both local villagers and visitors outside the village.
2. Cultural inheritance: The children's learning center aims to preserve and promote local traditions, farming techniques and craftsmanship, as well as the rich local culture, allowing more people to understand and appreciate them.
3. Social responsibility: The children's learning center actively supports special groups to bear broader social responsibilities.
4. Sustainable development: In addition to promoting local economic development, the children's learning center is dedicated to ecological and natural conservation, practicing sustainable development principles.