studioMLA Architects utilized natural materials and a warm layout at the Little School at Lincoln School in Providence, Rhode Island.

Lincoln School’s Building Beginnings project, dedicated to expanding and enhancing their Little and Lower schools, broke ground in December 2019. This campaign expanded the Little School program on Lincoln’s main campus.

The first phase of the project was completed in August 2020 and is a dedicated home for toddlers to 3-year-old students. Designed to emphasize the joy of learning through a Reggio-Emilia-inspired approach. The bright, airy, engaging learning spaces are lined with floor-to-ceiling panes that fully open and close, providing fresh air and a panoramic window into the natural world. A central piazza welcomes parents into the building. Off of which is a small on-site Reggio-Emilia studio that brings the philosophy to life through loose parts and natural elements to encourage creative and imaginative play. All classrooms also have direct access to a dedicated Little School playground. Connection to nature, designed with small, curious learners in mind. The Little School expansion produces zero carbon emissions.

Design: studioMLA Architects
Contractor: Deslandes Construction
Photography: studioMLA Architects & Josh Mitnick