CLIENT: Harding University Partnership School
LOCATION: Santa Barbara, CA
AGE GROUP: 2-5 years
DATE COMPLETED:
Harding University Partnership School is part of the Santa Barbara Unified School District. In 2021, with funding provided in part by First 5 Santa Barbara, Nature Explore partnered with the local design firm, KBZ Architects, to renovate the outdoor space used by preschool and kindergarten-aged children. The existing conditions included a traditional climber, play equipment, sandbox, and small garden.
The redeveloped space now includes a variety of activity areas and choices for children to learn and explore. The climbing structure was replaced with natural climbing boulders, and plant material was added throughout. The addition of gathering, music, art, building, and digging areas creates the nature-rich outdoor environment it is today.
“Our program serves a 78% socioeconomically disadvantaged student demographic, many of which lack access to green spaces. Through Nature Explore’s design, we’ve seen rapid academic and language development gains. The space enriches learning, supports social and emotional wellness, and fosters autonomy, student voice, inquiry, and wonder.” –Veronica Binkley, Principal
