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Scribbles Center for Learning in Bloomington, Illinois desired to build from scratch in order to accommodate their unique needs. As a childcare center serving the needs of those from 6 weeks old up to 12 years of age, they needed a space that allowed for privacy, security, safety, maximum visibility for adults, and fun for all the kids! This led to an abundance of interior windows for employees to be able to see and communicate with each other while keeping an eye on all of their learners. In addition the spaces needed to be able to be sectioned off for various ages both inside and outdoors without the kids feeling blocked out. The solution included an indoor open play atrium surrounded by classrooms, sectioned off outdoor play areas with fences that can be easily seen through, and an outdoor covered patio to protect from the heat and sun. The result is a blended space that works for adults and children of all ages.
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To allow for maximum visibility from any vantage point, there are an abundance of interior windows that allow adults to see one another and to observe the children no matter where they are in the building. From the entry, through the office, into the central play area, and into classrooms.
The central play area has windows located only along the very top. This brings in significant natural light, without children being distracted by looking at what is going on outside.
Bringing in the influence of one room school houses, red brick was intentionally chosen for the exterior of the building, and brought into some interior walls as well for continuity and to allow little hands to experience the texture of brick.
