A part of Livonia Public Schools’ 2021 bond program, the Early Childhood Center is the first significant, new development for the district in more than five decades. Designed to provide a “home away from home” for the district’s youngest learners, the over 70,000 square foot Livonia ECC is designed with traditionally residential exterior materials providing a familiar environment while blending with neighboring communities.

District visioning sessions provided guiding principles on which the design concept is based. Integrating children into their first school experience, the design bridges the gap between school and home with a nurturing, residential feel that is right sized for young learners with ample space for free movement. Sensory experiences drove the design of the ECC with emphasis on sight, sound, motion, touch, and development of self. Play opportunities enhance the senses and cater to children of differing abilities. Adaptable and customizable learning spaces with flexible furniture promote use longevity for evolving instructional needs. Finishes relate to the outdoors with natural elements in motifs on wall coverings and ceiling design.

The Livonia ECC interiors are scaled to accommodate young learners’ needs. The design provides a nurturing atmosphere to promote sensory comfort with home-like spaces like mudrooms for students to leave their belongings and family rooms where classes can gather for reading time. Designed for movement, the gross motor area provides space to run, jump, climb, and explore. Direct connections to the playground allow students to freely go back and forth between indoor and outdoor play space.

As a child’s first experience in the district, the Livonia ECC design creates opportunities for children to explore, socialize, and grow in a nurturing, dynamic educational setting.