YAS Education Academy Project – Iraq

YAS Education Academy Project – Iraq

YAS Education Academy Project – Iraq

 

Project Overview:

This project is located within a premium international kindergarten in Iraq. The basement area covers 660m² with an interior ceiling height of 3.5 meters. The design centers on the concept of “Happy Learning and Free Exploration,” integrating local Iraqi cultural elements with international educational principles to create a safe, interactive, and inspiring environment for early childhood development. 

Core Concepts: Exploration, Growth, Cultural Integration

Guided by the core theme of “Happy Learning and Free Exploration,” this design harmonizes Iraqi cultural identity with international pedagogical approaches. It provides a secure and engaging environment that encourages sensory and cognitive development. High-saturation colors and gentle contours are used throughout the space to create visual stimulation, while Arabic motifs help deepen cultural connection and broaden children's global perspectives.

Design Highlights:

Safety First: All materials are eco-friendly and child-safe, prioritizing the well-being of young learners.

Multi-sensory Stimulation: Rich colors, tactile walls, and interactive installations enhance cognitive and motor skill development.

Thematic Immersive Learning: Classrooms are designed around subject-based themes; corridors follow an ocean exploration concept, increasing engagement and curiosity.

Cultural Integration: Traditional Arabic patterns and bilingual signage (Arabic and English) demonstrate respect for local heritage.

Classroom Design:

Thematic Subjects: English, Science, Math, Arabic
Zoning: Reading Corner, Role Play Area, Soft Play Zone, Art Area, Building Blocks Zone

A. English-Themed Classroom

Color Scheme: Sky blue, pink, pastel yellow, and white—creating a relaxed, language-rich environment.

Key Features:
 • Reading Corner: Low bookshelves with soft cushions, stocked with English picture books and tactile books.
 • Role Play: Miniature kitchen and animal puppets to encourage basic English conversations.
 • Wall Decor: Alphabet cloud hangings and a tactile word wall.

B. Science-Themed Classroom

Color Scheme: Grass green, teal blue, orange, and silver grey—symbolizing nature and technology.

Key Features:
 • Role Play: Mini boutique shop helps children understand the concept of transactions and enhances social interaction.
 • Art Area: Magnetic graffiti wall (whiteboard material with dust-free, water-soluble crayons) encourages creativity and hands-on engagement.
 • Wall Decor: A fusion of gears, starry skies, and robots to evoke a futuristic, science-inspired atmosphere.

C. Math-Themed Classroom

Color Scheme: Orange-red, teal blue, and natural wood tones—designed to enhance visual contrast.

Key Features:
 • Soft Play Zone: Soft, multi-level, irregularly shaped sensory blocks paired with toddler mirrors to support motor development and safe exploration.
 • Wall Decor: Magnetic geometric puzzle boards combined with mathematical symbols.
 • Ceiling Fixtures: Pendant lights in various shapes to reinforce geometric awareness.

D. Arabic-Themed Classroom

Color Scheme: Desert gold, Islamic green, and cobalt blue—reflecting Iraqi cultural tones.

Key Features:
 • Role Play: Traditional Arabic market with miniature bread stalls and tea sets to introduce local culture.
 • Reading Area: Arabic nursery rhyme sound books and teddy bear-shaped sofas for a relaxed reading environment.
 • Wall Decor: Child-friendly Arabic letters to strengthen language recognition and cultural familiarity.

E. Corridor Design – Ocean Theme

Color Scheme: Deep and light blues to emulate an underwater world

Key Features:
 • Walls: Gradient blue backgrounds shaped like waves, fostering a sense of immersion.
 • Interactive Wall: Sensory play installations enhance children’s engagement and learning.
 • Flooring: Ocean wave and bubble patterns guide children along the corridor.
 • Wall Decor: Diverse marine life illustrations introduce basic marine biology concepts.

Conclusion:

This design integrates academics, culture, and play to provide a vibrant and secure learning environment for children aged 0–2. The modular approach ensures flexibility for future upgrades and expansion. The project not only fosters knowledge acquisition through natural exploration but also nurtures a sense of cultural belonging.

“Let every corner be the starting point of discovery.”