What happens when educational spaces extend beyond campus walls and deeply integrate with an old neighborhood? In Chengdu’s Yulin district, POLUS International College collaborated with nnm+ architects to transform an old residential building into an experimental teaching complex — C-SCHOOL. Embracing the idea that “the community is the classroom,” the project explores new possibilities for educational space.

C-SCHOOL, standing for "Community School", nestled in the community. Its curriculum and spatial design are deeply connected with the community on multiple levels. Students no longer work in isolation; instead, they engage in extensive hands-on design practice and fieldwork, creating a closed loop of production, learning, and research.

The original building, once a factory dormitory, was partially renovated and expanded. The ground floor now serves as a school communal space for teaching, workshops, exhibitions, and a library. Except for fixed shelves, all furniture is modular and can be rearranged for various uses. The design retains traces of time—old terrazzo floors and high corridor windows were restored to bring new life. The formerly dim apartments were opened up at the balcony side, extending toward the street. Glass above eye level allows natural light while maintaining a sense of security for students studying by the windows.

The redesign blurs the line between school and community. The area under the new street canopy, with its seating, acts as a small pocket park. During school hours, the public space is open to all—residents can read, visit exhibitions, or talk with students and teachers. The existing greenery and old gingko tree are preserved, often with students sitting and chatting beneath it.

The second to sixth floors of the old building were converted into dormitories. They are fitted with modular furniture, including wardrobes with adjustable shelves, desk-storage units, and bunk beds with privacy panels. This flexible setup allows the space to be easily adapted into a youth hostel during holidays or to host short-term artist residencies.

By deconstructing the traditional "traditional campus + fixed classroom" model, C-SCHOOL reveals the social value of educational space. It functions not merely as a setting for learning activities, but also as a potential catalyst for community relationships.