Bright Beginnings Early Learning Center

Challenge

Like many communities across the country, Durango, Colorado, has a severe shortage of licensed childcare options. With more than 1,100 children currently unserved and over 60% of families relying on dual-working parents, the community has struggled to find consistent and high-quality care. Many parents have been forced to make difficult career decisions due to limited availability, while employers have seen firsthand how the lack of childcare affects workforce participation.

Recognizing this critical gap, the Powerhouse Science Center – a well-loved children’s museum and educational hub in Durango – set out to transform its Carlton Family Science Education Center into a licensed early childhood education facility. Designing childcare spaces brings unique challenges, as architects must navigate two sets of requirements: the locally adopted building codes and the state regulations governing licensed daycare facilities. 

Solution

SEH is collaborating with The Powerhouse Science Center as the architect and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineer of record, with Nunn Construction serving as the Construction Manager/General Contractor (CMGC) construction partner. The design introduced three thoughtfully planned classrooms tailored to specific age groups: one for toddlers ages 18-36 months, two preschool classrooms, and one for children ages four to five preparing for kindergarten.

Each classroom was designed to promote creativity, curiosity, and exploration – the same spirit that defines the Powerhouse Science Center. Open, flexible, and light-filled spaces feature modern finishes that blend natural materials and careful pops of color consistent with the Powerhouse’s brand. Acoustical ceiling tiles will help with sound absorption for optimal learning. 

Navigating Complex Licensing Requirements

Meeting Colorado's early childhood licensing requirements proved to be a significant and rewarding challenge. The team worked closely with the Division of Early learning and Licensing Administration (DELLA), the local health department, early childhood educator advisors, and the Powerhouse team to ensure that all stakeholders met or exceeded the cumbersome State of Colorado Child Care Facility Licensing Rules and Regulations (8 CCR 1402-1). 

The Powerhouse Science Center received a $795,000 grant through the Colorado Department of Early Childhood's Employer-Based Child Care Facility Grant program; these funds were instrumental in making this project possible. The team recognized that quality childcare is critical to retaining and attracting their staff.

Once open in fall 2026, the center will provide STEM-based childcare for up to 44 children between the ages of two and five.

This project represents more than a renovation. It is a meaningful step toward addressing one of Durango’s most pressing challenges. By transforming an underutilized building into a modern early childhood education center, the Powerhouse Science Center is expanding access to reliable, high-quality childcare, supporting working parents, and nurturing the next generation of learners. Guided by the team’s efforts, this expansion strengthens the Powerhouse’s mission and makes a tangible difference for families across the community.