Looking for early education environment & architecture inspiration? In this article, we’ll look at this project to see how it aligns with early education philosophy, how the design facilitates learning, the activities that would suit these spaces and we’ll look at how you can use elements of the design as inspiration for your own service.
SolBe Learning Center
Brief Overview of the Project
Contents
The SolBe Learning Center, located in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, is a nursery and preschool designed for children aged six months to five years. The 550-square-metre facility was opened in 2019 and is situated in a strip mall. The design, created by the multidisciplinary firm Supernormal, challenges the traditional definition of a classroom. Instead of the conventional room bounded by four walls, the center introduces a new model that pairs each classroom, termed a “Dwelling”, with an open space, named a “Yard”.
Alignment with Montessori, Steiner or Reggio Principles
The design of the SolBe Learning Center resonates with the Montessori, Steiner, and Reggio principles in several ways:
- Open Spaces and Defined Zones: The center’s design, which includes distinct zones of activity with specific spatial characteristics, aligns with the Montessori and Reggio emphasis on creating environments that cater to children’s natural curiosity and developmental needs.
- Interaction with Nature: The use of skylights and the emphasis on natural light allows children to observe changes in light and weather, fostering a connection with nature, a key component of the Steiner philosophy.
- Community Engagement: The facility’s dual role as a community center, offering music lessons and continuing education courses, embodies the Reggio principle of viewing the school as a system of relationships between children, teachers, and parents.
Design Facilitating Learning
The design of the SolBe Learning Center is crafted to enhance the learning experience:
- Dwellings and Yards: The “Dwellings” offer spaces for focused, quiet learning, while the “Yards” are designed for lively play, dining, and group activities. This division caters to the varying energy levels and learning needs of children throughout the day.
- Natural Light: The facility boasts a 4.5-metre-high ceiling with skylights, allowing dappled, natural light to move across the interior. This not only creates a pleasant atmosphere but also lets children observe the changing patterns of light and weather.
Design Assisting Teachers in Creating Inspiring Lessons
The dynamic design of the center aids teachers in several ways:
- Versatility: The combination of Dwellings and Yards allows teachers to plan lessons that incorporate both focused academic activities and more energetic, playful tasks.
- Sensory Stimulation: The use of colorful, patterned wallpaper and the play of natural light can inspire sensory-based lessons, crucial for early childhood education.
Activities and Lessons Suited for this Space
Given the design of the SolBe Learning Center, the following activities would be ideal:
- Nature Observations: Using the natural light, teachers can conduct lessons on weather patterns, shadows, and time.
- Art and Craft: The vibrant interiors can inspire art projects using similar patterns and colors.
- Sensory Play: The varied textures, from oak flooring to acoustical plaster ceilings, can be used for touch-based sensory activities.
- Group Activities: The Yards can host group games, storytelling sessions, and music lessons.
Incorporating Elements of this Design in Other Kindergartens
Teachers and planners looking to replicate elements of the SolBe Learning Center’s design in their own environments can consider:
- Introducing Open Spaces: Instead of traditional closed classrooms, open spaces can be incorporated for group activities.
- Utilizing Natural Light: Wherever possible, maximize the use of natural light through skylights or large windows.
- Zoning: Create distinct zones for different activities, allowing children to move between focused learning and play areas.
- Incorporating Nature: Even if skylights aren’t feasible, elements like indoor plants or nature-themed decor can help bring the outdoors in.
In conclusion, the SolBe Learning Center’s design is a testament to the potential of architecture in shaping early childhood education. By challenging traditional norms and placing children’s developmental needs at the forefront, the center offers a blueprint for future educational spaces.
| Location | USA |
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