LOCATION
Omaha, Nebraska

AREA
27,000 GSF

PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Early Learning Center at Gateway Elementary adds to the Omaha Early Learning Centers network which, in partnership with Omaha Public Schools, helps children develop foundational skills that lead to successful students. Many of the design features at the Gateway Center, such as every classroom having direct access to an outdoor learning environment, encourage children to learn through exploration and discovery.

PROJECT HIGHLIGHTS

• Thermostats were designed to be tamper-proof and inaccessible to children, while temperature and air quality at the child level were taken into consideration to keep all occupants comfortable.
• Mechanical systems also include a water source heat pump system with energy recovery units providing fresh air.
• Corridors were designed not only as circulation areas, but as learning and play areas featuring color-changing lights and a light table with child-friendly controls.
• Special consideration was given to limiting glare experienced by children laying on changing tables in classroom restrooms; therefore, the team designed lighting in these areas to be indirect only.
• Building is protected by a sprinkler system designed for light hazard, comprised of semi-recessed and sidewall heads where appropriate throughout the structure.
• Facility was provided with a complete data and voice communications structured cabling system, including raceways, cable trays, cable, patch panels, cable management hardware, and universal jacks.
• Security system consists of door position switches and motion detectors to provide intrusion detection within the building while a card or key fob reader, located at the main vestibule into the building and at each exterior classroom door, provides access control of staff and public personnel.
• Audiovisual systems were designed for video presentation and content collaboration.

Learn more about projects similar to the Early Learning Center at Gateway by viewing our early childhood portfolio.

Professional Photography by: Kessler Photography