This new 48,000 SF early childhood educational facility, based on the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy, provides full day instruction for approximately 325 children aged 3-5 years living in six surrounding towns. Sensitivity to the agricultural history of the parcel and a planned curriculum connection to the nearby 4-H Farm program drove the design.
TSKP STUDIO’s design arranges three 6-classroom clusters, reminiscent of farm sheds, around a central courtyard in a pinwheel-like form. The 18 classrooms feature a variety of scale and form, shaped by non-parallel walls and both low and high ceiling areas. They are equipped with a speech amplification system, smart board, observation window, radiant floor heating, direct access to outdoors, bathrooms, and daylight sensors and auto-dimming controls. Custom-designed playscapes provide three different learning areas for dramatic play, physical adventure, and gardening.