It’s owned by X+Living – an architectural design studio in Shanghai, the swimming and recreational club designed for children and parents, called “Loong Swim Club” in Suzhou, China. The pastel-coloured spaces and caricatured and even slightly pop fantasy geometries create environments worthy of a dream in every room.
Having studied their target audience – children, parents and babies all sharing the same areas – the team of designers took into account the habits and behaviors of all groups. The club was divided into five main functional areas, all flowing from one space to another through a fantastic narrative.
A whale jumping out of the water welcomes the client at the entrance of the building, at the reception. From the ship-shaped desk and an arched lace representing a wave that pushes it to the shoe changing area and then to the reading room – it includes a series of curved seats or sofas to sit in moments of relaxation. Children are stimulated to read through a polka dot carpet and round lampshades that look like fountains of water directed towards the sky. On the left and right, parents have access to the pool and restaurant.
The first is surrounded by round arches and lanterns, coloured in pastel pink, which contrast with the blue of the water, it feels like being in Eden. The window between the pool and the parents’ area plays a key role in the space because it allows parents to watch their children swim and children to feel safe. Huge flower chandeliers adorn the toilet.
The ‘castle of egg shells’ – almost like open Fabergè eggs – is the heart of the restaurant. It challenges the senses of space and place, dimensions, heights and playful geometries. The mirrored ceiling gives the room a sense of infinity, reflecting the giant polka dot floors and the super-colored interior. Children can enter or climb on the eggs and then play freely within the space, while parents can enjoy a meal. The fairytale shapes are reminiscent of the set of Alice in Wonderland or The Chocolate Factory.
Text by Elisa Scotti
