Del Ray Early Learning Center

This transformative project reimagines an iconic 1940s Art Deco office building located in the heart of the historic Del Ray District, breathing new life into its storied structure through a meticulous conversion, thoughtful alterations, and sensitive additions. The vision: to create a vibrant, contemporary Pre-Kindergarten to Preschool facility that both honors the past and embraces the future.

Originally comprising a 2,500 square foot, two-story office building, the structure is expanded through a carefully integrated 7,500 square foot, two-story addition. The design strategy is rooted in preservation and innovation—respecting the defining characteristics of the original Art Deco architecture while introducing modern interventions that enhance usability, safety, and educational experience.

The restored historic façade is complemented by the new addition, which is thoughtfully massed and detailed to maintain architectural harmony and urban continuity. Decorative elements and streamlined geometry are preserved and echoed, creating a seamless dialogue between old and new. Inside, the spatial configuration is completely reimagined to support the needs of a 21st-century early learning environment. Bright, open classrooms, flexible learning zones, and child-scaled amenities promote engagement, exploration, and a nurturing atmosphere.

Modern building systems are discreetly integrated to support energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and long-term sustainability, all while preserving the building's historic fabric. Accessible design, security upgrades, and outdoor play areas are woven into the overall plan to meet contemporary code requirements and educational standards.