Courtyard concept connects kids with nature

Shanghai designer puts a modern twist on traditional Chinese architecture to create an enhanced sense of community

One kindergarten in Shanghai's suburban Jiading district stands out from most others, as its structure represents a huge honeycomb, with dozens of hexagonal classrooms linked by small outdoor play areas.

The main design concept of East China Normal University's Affiliated Bilingual Kindergarten is to introduce courtyards - an important element of traditional Chinese architecture - to children's lives in a modern city.