laurel academy preschool building
Seattle, WA

A modest residence over a garage is transformed into a preschool, integrating wheelchair accessibility and upgrading mechanical and structural components. These updates have significantly enhanced weather resistance, seismic safety, durability, comfort, and indoor air quality. The renovated space includes a generous entry porch, two primary classrooms, multiple bathrooms, and a secure outdoor play and transition area. Natural light floods the completed interiors, which boast fresh finishes that contribute to a welcoming atmosphere on the school campus. Careful placement of structure around existing roots ensured the retention of significant trees adjacent to the building, maintaining the site's natural beauty and environmental integrity.

The project was a result of the purchase of an adjacent parcel to the north of the school’s existing site. AGD worked with the Laurel Academy to explore master planning options for the entire campus, including parent drop-off and accessible loading. Scope included land use analysis, evaluation of the existing buildings on the additional parcel, and connections from the old campus to the new.