‍Our Approach

We began with a regulatory feasibility audit, not a mood board. Our team mapped every Title 22 clearance requirement, ADA accessible route, and Title 24 daylighting threshold against the existing structural grid before a single interior wall was drawn. This prevented the costly redesign cycles that typically plague child care conversions.

We designed the entrance lobby as a decompression zone—wood-clad ceiling with cove lighting to reduce visual overstimulation, open cubbies at child height for autonomy, and a clear sightline from the reception desk to the entry doors for security protocol compliance. The sculptural pendant was selected for its warm color temperature and indirect illumination, avoiding the harsh glare that triggers sensory distress in neurodivergent children.

In the play and learning rooms, we integrated structural and MEP systems early to preserve ceiling height and eliminate visual clutter. The cove lighting system provides uniform, flicker-free illumination that meets Title 24's high-efficacy standards while creating a calming atmosphere. Flooring transitions were minimized to accommodate wheelchair navigation, and all millwork edges were radiused per CPSC safety guidelines. We coordinated with a licensed child care consultant to ensure every material selection—down to the zero-VOC paint and antimicrobial surfaces—met California Department of Social Services requirements.

The result is a facility that passed plan check on first submission, opened on schedule, and serves as a model for inclusive early education design in Los Angeles.