The Children's Center of the Stanford Community is a new center that replaces two existing, older centers. The 18,500 square foot center provides classrooms for 226 children from infants and toddlers up to preschool age children. The project is in the heart of the Stanford campus, adjacent to a historical cottage on a site with hundreds of oak trees. The solution included a building carefully winding between the trees, creating a series of courtyards that become outdoor play areas. Our designs emphasize the importance of linking classrooms and play areas to optimize the ability for teachers to supervise children.