OPEN DOORS
FOR MULTICULTURAL FAMILIES ELC
INITIAL Tenant improvement

COMMUNITY DESIGN — early learning center — inclusive design

kEnt, WASHINGTON

Open Doors for Multicultural Families (ODMF) provides a spectrum of services and programs to over 2,500 individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD), most of whom live in South Seattle and South King County. ODMF is committed to supporting individuals and their families, regardless of cultural or linguistic background.

ODMF has partnered with Mercy Housing NW to develop an inclusive mixed-use affordable housing community adjacent to the future Kent - Des Moines Light Rail Station. The Multicultural Village will provide 220 affordable apartment homes as well as a state-of-the-art early learning center and other supportive services on site.

The early learning center, at 12,600 square feet, includes six preschool classrooms designed from the ground-up to center the needs of children with I/DD. Classroom and playground designs accommodate physical challenges through enhanced accessibility features, intuitive wayfinding, and environments that appeal to children of all abilities. Colors and materials are being selected to allow users to modulate the level of visual and acoustic stimulus they experience. The center also supports educators and research with facilities for remote and in-person observation.

The ODMF ELC is currently in Design Development; construction is anticipated to begin in Spring 2026.

Green Design: emphasis on natural, low-carbon materials, healthy indoor air quality via low-VOC materials and enhanced ventilation strategy, maximize use of daylighting and biophilic design