To address a critical shortage of high-quality childcare in the area, Wake Forest University (WFU) commissioned a new early education center that serves not only its faculty, staff, and students but also the greater Winston-Salem community. More than a facility, the center is a strategic investment in employee well-being and institutional recruitment and retention as well as a clear example of the University’s commitment to being a good community partner. By expanding access to reliable childcare, a proven factor in enabling women to reenter the workforce, WFU strengthens both its campus and the community it serves.

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The university first engaged the design team for a feasibility study and test fit analysis, followed by full design services for the new center. Located on the first floor of a 520,000 SF administrative building, the 12,644 SF space was transformed into a fully licensed, 5-star North Carolina quality-rated and NAEYC-accredited childcare facility.

The center supports 120 children aged 6 weeks to 5 years, with dedicated classrooms and indoor play areas grouped by age and developmental stage. A secure, clearly defined entry adjacent to the outdoor playground offers families an intuitive drop-off experience, visually separating the childcare center from the rest of the building and enhancing the sense of identity and arrival.

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The interior program includes:

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• Classrooms for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, and Pre-K
• Age-specific indoor play areas with distinct themes
• A dedicated outdoor play yard
• Administrative and reception areas
• A staff break room
• Support functions, including a mother’s room, storage, and restrooms

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The interior design team led all aspects of the project from space planning and circulation strategies to finish selection and the design of custom millwork, ensuring that every detail met rigorous safety and licensing standards while creating an environment that is engaging, functional, and welcoming to children, caregivers, and staff.