Assiniboine School Children’s Centre

Assiniboine School’s Children’s Centre was developed as an extension of the existing Childcare operating in the lower level of the adjacent Assiniboine School. The new childcare uniquely offers three (3) infant care program spaces, with a fourth space dedicated to pre-school age children. MCM worked closely with the Childcare operator to ensure the new building could best allow for the expansion and future planning of the existing childcare operation.

The new building is reminiscent of a familiar residential form as to exude a homelike atmosphere. The built form is also sympathetic to the scale and shape of the neighbouring residential properties, while an exterior colour palette was developed to be sympathetic to the existing adjacent Assiniboine School. Interior and exterior material finishes were selected for durability and ease of maintenance.

Interior spaces are organized off a central corridor that connects the various childcare program and operational support spaces. The building was oriented such that the large windows can create bright, sun-filled childcare program areas, with expansive views out to the exterior play area, the adjoining playfields and the Assiniboine River. The interior childcare spaces employ patterns, shapes, and colour to engage and stimulate the early childhood occupants, and also to assist in defining individual and group learning and activity zones. The Assiniboine Childcare offers a warm and inviting, nurturing environment where children can grow, learn, think and explore in the early and critical stages of their physical, intellectual, social and emotional development.