Technology Children’s Center at Stata
Cambridge, MA
MIT’s Stata Center, a 713,000SF complex designed by Gehry Partners, contains some of MIT’s world-renowned departments and programs. Amidst the academic rigor, Studio G Architects designed a three-story child care center in Dreyfoos Tower along the “Student Street”. The center serves 74 infants, toddlers and pre-school children. Classrooms overlook a courtyard play area to the south and “Student Street” to the north, allowing children to observe nature outside the building and college students walking between lecture halls, labs, and offices at the interior of the building. A curved slatted wood ceiling and colorful floor pattern welcome children into the reception area, and continue into each classroom forming a path for children to follow, easing their transition into the classroom. Classrooms are paired, and share a common kitchen and discovery center to encourage social interaction between the children. A multi-purpose space at the second floor serves as the village common, gathering children of different ages for dramatic play, performances, and gross motor activities.