TRAIN TO OASIS

Following the success of Anubarn Submarine—a primary school library that used the metaphor of a submarine to introduce young children to the importance of protecting natural resources—we continue the journey of imagination and education. This time, we invite children to travel even farther, aboard a brand-new vehicle of learning.

We were once again entrusted with designing a preschool library for the same institution: Anuban Samut Sakhon School. The project was carried out by Greenbox Design as a pro bono contribution, with the hope of enriching the educational experience for future generations. This new library was created specifically for the English Program (EP) curriculum, and its conceptual vehicle is the train—a symbol of momentum, direction, and boundless learning. We imagined it as a journey taking young learners closer to becoming global citizens.

The concept was initially inspired by a sci-fi film that depicted a future where Earth’s resources had been depleted and humanity survived by living aboard a constantly moving train that generated energy. While the visual metaphor of a train helps children grasp the idea easily and become emotionally engaged, it is not the sole essence of the design. Instead, our design focuses on movement, scale, and interaction.

The foundation of this project began with studying the scale of preschool-aged children, whose average height ranges from 88 to 134 cm. Every piece of furniture and architectural detail had to be ergonomically scaled for comfort, accessibility, and safety across all ages. Seating heights, step dimensions, and spatial transitions were carefully designed to encourage movement and active learning.

The interior is divided into four learning zones, each reflecting a modern approach to early childhood education:

🔍 Zone 1: Searching
This area is shaped like a train, symbolizing the journey children take as they seek knowledge. The design invites exploration and gives the sense of being transported to new destinations of discovery.

🧩 Zone 2: Workshop
A flexible space that allows furniture to be rearranged for both small and large group activities. The design draws inspiration from melting polar ice, and the modular furniture pieces subtly introduce the concept of global warming to young minds.

🌴 Zone 3: Oasis
A central teaching area where the teacher is positioned in the middle of the space, eliminating the traditional front-back classroom dynamic. The multi-level seating is designed to suit children of all sizes, ensuring that every learner is comfortable and engaged.

📚 Zone 4: Reading Area
Located at the quietest part of the space, this zone is dedicated to peaceful reading. It serves as a retreat where children can immerse themselves in books and imagination.

We hope that the questions we asked, and the answers we pursued in this design, will spark curiosity, raise awareness, and foster responsibility in the younger generation. May these children grow up with the mindset to care for their world—and pass that spirit onward, slowing down the loss of what makes this planet our home.