Nature-Based Education | Burbank, IL

Hitchcock Design Group designed a holistic landscape for a facility uniting over 400 students aged 3 to 24 from eleven school districts into one inclusive, nature-based environment. The site fosters stress reduction, focus on learning, personal growth, and social enrichment through outdoor spaces that encourage exploration, socialization, and play year-round.

The design includes challenges to develop gross-motor skills with inclusive, multi-sensory play equipment, sports courts, and accessible pathways. Two internal courtyards offer safe, convenient access for outdoor learning and recreation, while two external playscapes cater to younger and older students, providing areas for play, staff respite, and special events.

The plant palette is composed of diverse, predominantly native, non-toxic, and low-maintenance species that attract wildlife and pollinators. Outdoor learning spaces support both class-sized groups and one-on-one activities with varied seating options in sun or shade, fully immersed in nature.

This thoughtfully designed landscape offers a serene, inclusive environment that supports collaboration, social interaction, and personal development while meeting the needs of students with varying abilities.