Beijing, China, 2026-05-07 - 

Beijing-based design studio, Studio Vapore, has collaborated with the International School of Beijing (ISB) to create the Dragon Creche, a compact nursery designed for infants and toddlers of the school’s staff.

The project transforms a previously unused balcony into a calm and functional environment that supports teacher mothers returning to work. During the day, the space accommodates feeding, resting, and short visits, allowing mothers to reconnect with their children in between classes.

A single room structured for quiet

The layout is organized as a sequence of small, connected zones within a single room, arranged from more public to more private.

An entrance area acts as a filter, providing space for stroller parking and cubbies. This leads into a small pantry before opening into the main play area. Along the edges of this central space, more private zones for nursing, feeding, and sleeping are arranged, allowing different activities to coexist while maintaining a sense of calm.

Rather than relying on rigid partitions, arches and curtains define the spaces, maintaining visual continuity while allowing flexibility and privacy when needed.

A slightly elevated platform runs along the main play area. It functions both as a secondary play space and as a resting zone, where mattresses can be arranged for toddlers. Elements integrated into the walls support early movement and development, allowing children to pull themselves up and interact with the space in a safe and intuitive way.

An illustrated interior

The design is built around the idea of a forest inhabited by the school’s dragon—a calm and friendly presence rather than a dominant character.

A large felt wall defines the main play area, depicting a forest in a daytime setting with soft light, vegetation, and subtle movement suggested through falling leaves and layered textures. The illustration creates an immersive backdrop while remaining gentle and open to interpretation.

The wall also functions as a sensory surface, where variations in depth and material invite touch and interaction.

In contrast, the elevated area shifts into a night setting, where tones deepen and the atmosphere becomes quieter and more subdued. This transition supports the dual use of the space, moving naturally from play to rest.

Light and material

The room faces west and receives limited natural light. A central skylight introduces soft, diffused illumination, recalling the filtered light of a forest canopy.

This is complemented by a series of suspended paper lanterns in the main space, adding a warm, atmospheric quality.

Materials are intentionally soft and tactile. Padded flooring, large mattresses, and felt surfaces contribute to comfort, safety, and acoustic control. The combination of felt, fabric, mirrored surfaces, and artificial leather creates a layered sensory environment, supporting exploration and early development.

Making use of what exists

Working within a very limited footprint, the project demonstrates how overlooked spaces can be transformed into meaningful environments.

The creche is part of a broader approach to reclaim underused areas within the school, turning residual spaces into places that support everyday life. Through careful organization, light intervention, and a strong spatial identity, the Dragon Creche supports both the practical and emotional needs of its users.