Haas Residence

How Does ‘Play-Based Education’ Inspire Children's Skills in a small NE Los Angeles Community?"

Location: Glassell Park, Los Angeles, California

Program: Single-Family Residence

Area: 1,900ft² (176m²)

Status: Completed

Story

In the vibrant Glassell Park area of Northeast Los Angeles, a retired piano teacher with a passion for community enhancement is set to transform her property into a daycare center. Her vision is to offer a new beginning for the area's children, aiming to uplift the community's quality of life through this endeavor.

This 1,900 square-foot daycare, envisioned by a seasoned child development expert, aims to redefine learning spaces. The philosophy here transcends conventional classrooms, advocating for natural learning through play. It's a space where games lead to discoveries and laughter marks the growth of each child.

The daycare is designed to bloom alongside Glassell Park's community, envisaged as a nucleus of joy, exploration, and imagination. The owner dreams of children playing unrestrainedly, their happiness and creativity nurturing an environment of love and learning.

Challenge

The journey to realize this dream involved tackling the challenges of a hillside location. The task was not just about managing higher construction costs but also about ensuring the safety and aesthetic appeal of the facility. The goal was to harmonize the outdoor learning environment with the surrounding nature, creating a safe, transparent space for children.

Solution

Nature's rhythm inspired the design, merging indoor and outdoor play areas and maximizing the use of natural light. The natural slope of the land was cleverly used to establish various play zones, supporting a play-based learning approach. The daycare features include a mud kitchen, allowing children to connect with nature and learn about science hands-on. Plants and fruit trees enrich the environment, fostering ecological awareness and responsibility. Sandpits and private terraces cater to diverse sensory and quiet learning experiences.

The project took on a personal dimension for Mauricio, a team member who became a father during its development. His newfound understanding of a parent's desire for a nurturing environment influenced the daycare's creation. This personal touch mirrors the owner's vision of providing a balance of love, safety, and learning.

As the daycare nears completion, it stands as more than just a learning facility. It's a symbol of communal growth, a trusted resource for parents, and a commitment to nurturing the community's heart. This daycare is envisioned to be a living space that evolves with its families, echoing the aspirations and dreams of the Glassell Park community.