To make this project successful, our architects put themselves in the mind of the typical kindergarten student. We determined that the most important result of the project was the comfort of these children as they begin a new and important stage in their lives.

This was accomplished with three neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has a common area surrounded by four classrooms and has a unique color and shape. These appear in the floors, walls, and trim, so that kindergarteners have a sense of belonging and know their way around. Also, the shapes and colors make the whole facility seem smaller to the children.

We worked closely with faculty to create twelve welcoming classrooms which accommodate morning and afternoon sessions. Each classroom has a tiled floor area for general instruction and art sessions; and a warm, carpeted floor area for reading and floor activities. Coat cubbies and individual art storage cubbies are designed keeping in mind the size of the students.

The faculty and community are delighted with this award wining project. Even more importantly, the children feel a sense of safety in what can truly be called a "home away from home."