IRCO Early Beginnings Preschool
This culturally specific preschool is co-located with affordable housing at Glisan Landing, increasing access to early education for residents and the surrounding community.
Project Details
Location
Portland, OR
Client
Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO)
Year Completed
2025
Project Size
3,617 sq. ft.
Land Recognition
We have a responsibility to not only acknowledge but also elevate Native communities and their needs. This project sits in the area currently known as Portland, which encompasses the traditional village sites of the Multnomah, Wasco, Cowlitz, Kathlamet, Clackamas, Bands of Chinook, Tualatin Kalapuya, Molalla, and many other tribes who made their homes along the Columbia River.
Educating ourselves is an important action. We encourage you to explore the stories of these communities through Native-led resources like David G. Lewis, PhD’s The Quartux Journal and Leading with Tradition.
Building Bright Beginnings
The IRCO Early Beginnings Preschool is the first IRCO-led multicultural Early Learning Center in Multnomah County. Located at Glisan Landing the building houses two classrooms that are designed to provide a nurturing early-learning environment for children who live at Glisan Landing and in the nearby community. With services provided at no cost, its location adds tremendous value to families by addressing both kindergarten readiness and wraparound support.
An Inclusive Interior
Part of Multnomah County’s Preschool for All program, the preschool needed to meet specific design requirements. Working in collaboration with IRCO, the design team ensured that equipment and furnishings were accessible to children of all abilities.
The materials and color palette were selected to create a warm, playful environment. Various shades of green and pink pop against the white and light wood, keeping the classrooms feeling open and bright. For comfort, acoustic panels help mitigate sound.
Beyond the Classroom
The building’s two exterior overhangs provide covered play areas, extending the classrooms and allowing for greater program flexibility. Its design also increases glazing in the classrooms, providing ample natural light and transparency so educators can see both indoor and outdoor areas simultaneously for safety.
Shared Amenity
Glisan Landing features a central courtyard shared by the preschool, Aldea, and Beacon, fostering strong community connections. The courtyard is configured as a series of outdoor rooms to allow various activities to coexist, from an activity lawn and playground to a meandering stroll garden and plazas.
