Jungle Tribe Recreational Space by Xisui Design: Nature-Integrated Play in Chengdu

Located in the heart of Chengdu’s bustling Jinjiang District, the Jungle Tribe Recreational Space by Xisui Design (2022) transforms urban childcare into a nature-inspired adventure. Covering 1,150 m² within the Newhope Tianfu • D10 development, this innovative project blends landscape architecture principles with playful design strategies, creating a safe, engaging, and aesthetically compelling environment for children and families.

Nature-Inspired Design Philosophy

Dubbed “Undulating Paradise”, the design draws inspiration from the region’s natural undulating cave terrain. By embedding children’s play facilities seamlessly into the landscape, the design reduces the presence of artificial structures, fostering a sense of natural belonging and exploration. Children enjoy diverse, stimulating environments that encourage creativity and physical activity, while adults benefit from leisurely walking paths and communal spaces that promote family interaction.

Architectural Integration in an Urban Context

Situated near the Taikoo Li business district and surrounded by high-rise buildings, the project demanded a delicate balance between functional performance and visual appeal. The rhythmic, wave-like facade conceals a garage entrance while maintaining resident privacy, demonstrating a thoughtful integration of urban constraints with high-quality design standards.

Innovative Structural Solutions

The three-layer wooden tile roof was engineered using Ameba’s progressive optimization algorithm, achieving optimal load distribution while minimizing space consumption. The structural system was simplified to enhance efficiency without compromising material strength, demonstrating a careful balance between cost, durability, and spatial freedom.

Materiality and Craftsmanship

Outdoor materials prioritize safety, durability, and tactile engagement. High-resistant bamboo boards were used for all surfaces in contact with children, providing natural texture and longevity. Complex curves were realized by dividing hyperbolic surfaces into constructible segments, allowing precise fabrication while maintaining the visual elegance of the design.

Spatial Experience and Play Diversity

The layout features bubble-shaped micro-spaces that echo surrounding terrain arcs, creating semi-open, sheltered play areas. This design encourages children to explore at their own pace, fostering physical, cognitive, and social development. Parents enjoy spaces that support comfort and observation, enhancing family bonding and interactive experiences.

Coexistence with Nature and Urban Life

By merging terrain, vegetation, and play structures, the D10 Jungle Planet-themed site reduces the visual dominance of urban infrastructure. The project accommodates all ages, offering nature-connected leisure areas for adults while supporting stimulating, safe environments for children. This integration of natural landscapes within a dense cityscape reflects Xisui Design’s commitment to ecological sensitivity, playful innovation, and community wellbeing.

Conclusion Jungle Tribe Recreational Space demonstrates how urban recreational design can harmonize nature, architecture, and social engagement. Through innovative materials, thoughtful spatial planning, and child-centered design, it creates a holistic, multi-generational environment where play, relaxation, and family interaction coexist seamlessly.

All photographs are works of  Guochang Liu