RDG Planning & Design: Mesa County Early Childhood Center at Clifton Campus Highlighted
Metal Architecture's 2025 Design Book features RDG's design for the Mesa County Early Childhood Center at Clifton Campus.
The Mesa County Early Childhood Center at Clifton Campus promotes a safe, welcoming and positive learning environment while incorporating natural local elements into its metal features. Completed in 2025, the Colorado-based campus is a vibrant expression of community identity and collective aspiration, promoting connection, resilience and lifelong learning. RDG’s design of various corrugated and ribbed metal wall systems, which combine visually stimulating perforations and colors such as reds and blues, serves as both an aesthetic reflection of the environment and a functional wayfinding aid.
Metal plays an integral role in the design, being used to create comfortable indoor-outdoor transitional spaces throughout the community. Its durability and longevity contribute to sustainability, helping to reduce heating and cooling demands. RDG’s design intentionally utilizes metal as a modern material choice that also references community heritage, showcasing innovation through contemporary metal finishes and allowing the building to blend seamlessly into its surroundings.
The Mesa County Early Childhood Center comprises 12 classrooms for children aged six weeks to five years, as well as a designated space for after-school care that provides essential support for working families. Each classroom opens directly to an age-specific outdoor learning environment that encourages movement, exploration and developmental growth.
Additional spaces include a computer lab, administrative offices and flexible multipurpose meeting rooms that accommodate various community functions. A standout feature is the community hall and event space, envisioned as a neighborhood gathering point that supports a range of activities, from educational workshops to local celebrations.