Poulsbo, Washington

Marion Forsman-Boushie Early Learning Center

Elders play an important role at this Head Start childcare center for the Suquamish Tribe. Abundant natural features provide the setting for the elders to teach the children about the Tribe’s history and culture throughout the site. Plants that play important roles in the culinary and social history have been chosen. An intimately scaled longhouse becomes a community gathering place, while a hand-carved canoe sits on the beach next to a stream outfall. Children at this childcare center are in touch with the natural world and elders are there to help them navigate their place in it. The children’s play area is divided into spaces for infants, toddlers, Pre-K, and school age to allow each group to play safely with equipment appropriate to their different ages, abilities, and interests.

Owner

Suquamish Tribe

Client

ARC Architects

Role

Landscape Architecture