In the heart of Newark, a new concept for an Early Childhood Learning Center features connections to nature and biophilic principles.
Newark, New Jersey — Concept for Academic Building.
Nested in Newark's University Heights is a new early education center on Norfolk Street
Norfolk Early Learning Institute (NELI) proposes a pioneering Early Learning academy serving infants to second graders. Inspired by a sponge's porosity, it features a circular ramp central circulation around an interior courtyard. The building houses a rooftop playground, classrooms, nursery, and gymnasium, enveloped by a rain screen of perforated metal panels and a double skin façade. The learning facility absorbs the urban fabric and neighborhood with accommodation for community activities and exterior social gathering space.
The design started with a sketch focused on welcoming the community and students into the natural courtyard at the center of the building. The school is elevated to let visitors enjoy the natural features. Located in the heart of Newark, the education center is in a vibrant area. The project aims to be a safe space for young learners while also being inviting to the local community.
Image: Concept sketch.
Study models were created to develop ideas from the concept sketch. The main part of the model is a sponge. It represents the building's openness and aims to engage the community, connect students to nature, and reflect the playful ideas of children in the education center.
Image: Study model comprised of a sponge.
The exterior of the building is comprised of a double skin facade. The outer skin is a multi-colored metal panel system and the interior skin is a glass unitized curtain wall. The facade system improves the interior thermal comfort, reduces the energy cooling and heating demand, and improves the acoustic performance for the building.
Image: Front public facade on Norfolk Street with multicolor perforated metal paneling.
Each level of the building is dedicated to different age groups. The ground floor includes the nursery, main lobby, and other administrative functions. Students and visitors can experience the nature and light by entering through the central courtyard. The courtyard includes a small playground for the pre-school level children. The main playscape area is located on the roof for the 1st and 2nd grade students.
Images: Entrance of the building through the central courtyard. Nursery room for infants and toddlers.
