Groundwork Architects & Associates embarked on a comprehensive 18-month study of existing playgrounds in Hong Kong, commissioned by the Hong Kong Government. This exploration led to a deeper examination of the relationship between architecture and play, resulting in the conceptualization of “Toy as Architecture, Architecture as Toy” – a series of projects that challenge the traditional boundaries between these two realms.

Fairyland Playscape: Bridging Imagination and Reality

Commissioned by K11, a prominent shopping mall in greater China, Groundwork envisioned and brought to life Fairyland Playscape, a playable art piece that blurs the lines between architecture and play. Inspired by the Chinese classic literature “Journey to the West,” this 400-square-meter inflatable structure reimagines the mythical “Yushan” (Jade Mountain) in a modern context. Fairyland Playscape serves not only as a monumental architectural installation but also as a colossal toy, inviting visitors of all ages to embrace risk-taking and fun. Enhanced by immersive sci-fi music and strategic lighting, the experience transcends traditional notions of architectural interaction.

Pavilion of Roads: Nostalgia Reimagined

Groundwork’s exploration of the symbiotic relationship between architecture and play continued with the Pavilion of Roads, commissioned by Road King Properties, a Hong Kong real estate developer rooted in the realm of road development. This pavilion, constructed entirely from interconnected mini 4-wheel-drive hobby car tracks, serves as a visual icon and communal gathering space. Inspired by Road King’s slogan “The Endless Road,” the winding tracks evoke nostalgia for childhood play while embodying the company’s ethos. By magnifying familiar toys from our youth and integrating them into the built environment, the pavilion immerses visitors in a nostalgic journey, fostering connections and leaving a lasting impression.

Blurring Boundaries, Creating Memories

Groundwork’s approach to “Toy as Architecture, Architecture as Toy” seeks to dissolve the distinction between architectural space and playful engagement. By enlarging and recontextualizing familiar toys within architectural settings, the projects aim to evoke joy, nostalgia, and a sense of carefree abandon. Through immersive experiences that encourage active participation, these innovative designs transform traditional notions of architecture, inviting visitors to rediscover the magic of play within built environments.