Ford Architects partnered with Land+Shelter Architecture & Planning to develop the conceptual design for the Town of Basalt’s Early Childhood Education Center. Funded through concept design, the project aimed to explore site utilization, determine possible project size, and establish a budget framework. The facility is planned to serve infants through preschoolers, featuring two preschool classrooms, three toddler classrooms, and one infant classroom to support a range of developmental stages.

The center prioritizes exploratory and sensory-rich learning environments, with three distinct outdoor playgrounds tailored to different age groups. These play areas encourage multi-sensory engagement through elements such as varied textures, natural sounds, and creative expression opportunities, fostering curiosity and individual growth.

Biophilic design principles are central to the architecture, incorporating abundant vision windows that flood indoor spaces with natural daylight and provide visual connections throughout the school and to the surrounding natural environment. This connection supports children’s wellbeing, creativity, and learning.

Sustainability is a key focus, with photovoltaic solar power integrated to achieve a Net Zero energy performance target. The design embraces energy-efficient strategies and green building practices to reduce environmental impact while creating a healthy, comfortable environment for children, educators, and families.

Currently, the project is on hold as the Town of Basalt evaluates the future use of the site. When progressed, this Early Childhood Education Center will embody a commitment to innovative, evidence-based early childhood design that supports developmental needs, nurtures creativity, and advances community sustainability goals.