FIO360 is an exciting new eco-child friendly childcare center located in the Atlantic Station development, a redeveloped brownfield and national model of smart growth. The owner felt strongly about the need to create a healthy environment and designers responded with sustainable design elements and natural materials. The green approach includes no-VOC paints, sustainable bamboo flooring, recycled materials, and measures to improve indoor air quality including ultraviolet lights in the ductwork to kill bacteria. Efforts were made to conserve resources with an energy-efficient cooling network, radiant heated floors and water-conserving features. Other special eco-friendly design elements include solar tubes for natural daylighting and dual-level lighting that allow for high visibility even with only partial lighting.
Children are enticed with a Children’s Reception area, playful floor pattern, and custom-made child-sized classroom doors. An Imagination Station area, complete with revolving museum-like exhibits, encourages young learners to make new discoveries. Additional spaces include a lobby, classrooms, an activity room for use by parents and staff, and a rooftop playground which will provide a safe outdoor urban experience.
