Traditional Chinese Aesthetic Children's Space Under Kongming Lantern by Xisui Design

Located in Nanyang, China, this 532 m² children's play area by Xisui Design masterfully blends traditional Chinese culture with modern playful experiences. Drawing inspiration from the local heritage of Zhuge Liang's Thatched Cottage and the iconic Kongming lantern, the design transforms cultural memories into immersive spaces that delight children of all ages.

The project progresses from historical culture to folkloric symbols and everyday scenes, capturing the essence of “harmony, joy, and the warm glow of countless household lights.” The Neo-Chinese courtyard architecture is extended into the playground, integrating sloped tiled roofs, climbing nets, and interactive tunnels, while rejecting conventional toy-stacking designs.

The all-age activity area features a two-level platform, a cylindrical slide, a balance beam pathway, and a lantern-inspired deck. Vibrant orange-red gradients mimic the warm glow of traditional lanterns, while climbing nets and tiled rooftop elements allow children—and even adults—to explore, climb, and engage in joyful play.

The children’s area encourages exploration with vertical climbing poles, light-and-shadow tunnels, and “floating” rooftop play structures, offering young adventurers new perspectives and stimulating curiosity. For toddlers, a safe, dynamic zone with age-appropriate play facilities, changing colors, and unobstructed sightlines ensures parent-child interaction and developmental support.

Additional installations, such as multi-person lounging nets, trampolines, seesaws, rocking horses, and graffiti walls, complement the main playground while maintaining smooth circulation and preventing overcrowding. Every facility edge is rounded to ensure safety, while night lighting creates a dreamy atmosphere that merges traditional aesthetics with contemporary play design.

This project demonstrates how cultural immersion, interactive play, and architectural storytelling can combine to create a vibrant, educational, and joyful children's space, preserving local heritage while inspiring creativity across generations.

All Photographs are works of ISLAND·PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO