University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, Earl Shapiro Hall Early Childhood Center

Chicago, Illinois

Firm

FGM Architects Inc.

Client

University of Chicago Laboratory Schools

Area

130,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$50,800,000

Completion Date

08/2013

Founded over 100 years ago to embody a “learn by doing” approach to education, this PK-12 school continues to be a leader of educational excellence. Through research and immersion, the school evaluated the function, program and capacity to reinvent their facilities for 21st Century students. The first phase was an early childhood center for grades PK-2. In accordance with Lab Schools’ educational philosophies based on the theories of John Dewey, every space is designed to promote the spark of learning and engage children in their own education, from classrooms to the outdoors.

The range of space types embraces students’ and teachers’ desire for choices that optimize learning opportunities. Spaces are designed to promote the gathering of children, such as the arrangement of classrooms around courtyards and unprogrammed learning laboratories. Socialization is as much a part of the educational process as the curriculum. In addition to classrooms, art and music rooms, a library, gymnasium and rooftop playground, the building has administrative and counseling offices. High-performing building systems and construction materials were used to target LEED Silver certification.