We are thrilled to announce the completion of the Easterseals MORC Autism Comprehensive Care Center in Waterford, Michigan! The new 16,900-square-foot care center takes an innovative approach to provide integrated behavioral health services for the growing number of children and adults on the autism spectrum throughout Southeast Michigan.
Easterseals MORC Autism Comprehensive Care Center entry
Materials
Soft green and blue hues are used in spaces, like Main Street or the Younger Kids area, to reduce stress and promote safety, relaxation, and connection to nature.
Indoor and Outdoor play areas incorporate a variety of tactile, swaying, swinging, and sound producing elements—giving children opportunities for motor activity and sensory exploration.
Carpeting in Main Street is made with over 80% recycled materials.
Colors, shapes, and textures provide direction and wayfinding nodes throughout the building.
Orientation
Maximized sunshine at play areas and minimized winds from the west make these areas more useful throughout the year.
North and east facing windows on Main Street allow for soft, consistent natural light and avoid eye-straining bright glares.
Building’s form allowed for the conservation of existing trees, including a 100+ year old oak tree!
Acoustics
Reduce HVAC sounds and and other environmental noises
Acoustical separations to provide increased privacy
Lighting
Colorful lighting in the shape of kites and clouds provide both fun and visual wayfinding
elements for the young kids and their families.
Dimmable, color changing lighting in the Circle Time room can be adjusted depending on the activities to make it comfortable and appropriate for the kids.
Natural light is abundant throughout the building and filtered at the building envelope, where appropriate.
Safety
Main Street windows provide greater visibility on the playscape
Outdoor play area utilizes autism appropriate play stations for multiple age groups
Check out a walkthrough of the Care Center: Autism Comprehensive Care Center Video Tour