SolBe Skyhouse is a compact yet highly considered 650-square-foot single-room prototype that reimagines the early childhood learning environment. Situated in a storefront space adjacent to SolBe’s flagship center, this project represents a fresh take on spatial organization, materiality, and functional design in early education.

SolBe engaged our studio to challenge conventional strategies and optimize the space for both flexibility and efficiency. In response, we developed a perimeter-based layout that anchors the room with custom-designed storage systems. These modular cubbies of varying sizes accommodate everything from toys and personal items to teaching materials and cleaning supplies. By pushing storage to the edges, we liberated the center of the space for adaptable furniture arrangements, enabling the room to shift seamlessly between different modes of activity throughout the day.

This strategy not only supports the dynamic needs of children and educators but also contributes to a calmer, more organized environment—one that eases the mental load of educators while fostering autonomy in children.

In this iteration, we introduced a refined material palette for SolBe that emphasizes natural, durable elements. Warm wood, resilient steel, ceramic tile, and a soft, playful color scheme work together to create an environment that is both nurturing and stimulating. A gently sloping ceiling draws the eye forward, amplifying the sense of depth and spaciousness. At its center, a large recessed oculus with programmable color-changing light serves as an identity-defining feature—offering educators the ability to modulate the atmosphere for play, rest, or focus.

SolBe Skyhouse is a study in scale, adaptability, and emotional intelligence in design—transforming a small footprint into a vibrant, supportive space for growth and discovery.