The DEYA Day Care Center in Yantai, China, designed by 11‑Design, turns a typical daycare into a whimsical camp‑style environment by integrating canvas tents and steel frames throughout indoor play and rest zones. The 2,906 ft² space, tailored for children aged six to twelve, is organized with clusters of off‑white canvas shelters supported by bold orange metal frames, creating intimate multi‑use areas for play, quiet time, or reading.

Circulation pathways wind through tiered wooden platforms, while layers of ladders, climbing structures, and built‑in bookshelves double as seating and storage. Curtains and ladders provide scale‑appropriate spaces that children can physically engage with, supporting both active play and retreats. Furnishings such as tables and desks are constructed from local birch plywood, reinforcing cost‑effective sustainability. By rethinking daycare interiors with tent‑like forms and soft enclosures, DEYA prioritizes child autonomy, atmosphere, and sensory comfort—fostering a nurturing environment crafted for imagination and exploration.

Image Credit: 11-Design