• rendering of hallway

  • rendering of exterior of early learning center

  • rendering of south elevation

  • rendering of cafeteria

  • rendering of classrooms

  • rendering of bathroom

We understand the critical role that economic agents and developers like you play in fostering growth and sustainability within communities. For over a decade, the leadership at Arise Design Studio has pioneered research and design in early learning environments. Today, we have the opportunity to come together to address your needs and challenges in childcare as a critical component in our communities social fabric. Our team of professionals specializes in creating innovative, engaging, and safe spaces that nurture young minds. Invest in the foundation of tomorrow by developing early learning centers

with Arise Design Studio.

Developing Early Learning Centers

Experience-

Founded in 2021, Arise Design Studio is quickly becoming one of the region's premier design firms. Arise offers professional architecture, interior design, and planning services for owners, contractors and firms. A rural design studio based in Lake County, SD serves as the hub for this progressive and innovative practice focused on creating community-based architecture in our own backyard. Angela McKillip, Owner and Creative Director of Arise, has over 15 years of industry experience and 10 years leading and teaching within the School of Design at South Dakota State University. Angela brings practice-based knowledge and innovative insight to every project and design process she leads. Central to her creative pulse is conversation and connection; client's goals, needs and passions inform and inspire each project. As a working professional with a young family, Angela has personally experienced the gap of childcare support within small communities. Arise Design Studio is eager to endorse this important work, leading to enhanced small community living.

We invite you to collaborate with Arise Design Studio to turn your vision into reality. By addressing our community's childcare crisis head-on, we can pave the way for sustainable economic growth and prosperity.

  • Our local businesses are thriving, yet the availability of quality childcare slots is diminishing, posing a significant challenge to our workforce and economic development. Research consistently shows that high-quality early childhood education is vital for children's physical, cognitive, and social development. More importantly, childcare is not just a family issue; it is an economic imperative.

  • In response to this pressing need, our team of professionals is uniquely educated to support early learning centers with our years of research and design work in these types of environments. We are able to design facilities with meticulous attention to health and safety, exceeding the stringent standards set by the State of South Dakota Licensing Requirements.

  • Our initiative is strongly supported by our community's major employers. In a recent survey, nearly 80% expressed enthusiastic support for the establishment of a childcare center. This overwhelming endorsement reaffirms that investing in childcare infrastructure is essential for nurturing a robust and capable workforce.

  • Lets dream of possibilities. Together, we will combine the potential with expertise to capture those ideas and turn them into a cohesive design package.

    Arise will work with you to determine needs, opportunities and challenges. Explore alternatives and develop a design uniquely suited for the context.

    Next, we will build the right team for your project by selecting consultants based on experience in similar project types and availability. They will remain on your project through construction providing continuity in executing your administrative processes and procedures.

    See Our Design Process

  • Engage

    We understand that funding such initiatives can be challenging. That’s why we are committed to supporting you throughout the funding process, including identifying grant opportunities. We have successfully walked through the grant process securing a Community Development Block Grant with LAIC. LAIC childcare center receives $1 million grant

  • Excite

    Let's not forget why we're doing this. Children thrive in environments that invite their imagination to play!

    Explore this article co-authored by Angela McKillip: An Innovative Collaborative Design Project: Exploring the Aesthetic Dimensions of Reggio-Inspired Furniture

  • Empower

    We’re here to help you take the first few steps! Let’s discuss how Arise Design Studio can work with you to empower our community’s future. Together, we can ensure that every child has access to the high-quality early education they deserve, while simultaneously bolstering our local economy.

  • Embark

    Arise offers comprehensive schematic design packages that bring your ideas to life, helping you visualize and communicate your vision effectively. Our detailed designs enable you to present your concepts clearly, making it easier to garner support and enthusiasm within your community. Whether you’re planning a new project or refining an existing one, our expert team is here to assist you every step of the way. Let’s connect and turn your ideas into reality!

  • "We thoroughly enjoyed the collaborative and innovative approach taken in the design process of our Early Learning Childcare Center. The architect’s attention to detail and ability to integrate functional and aesthetic elements into the design was particularly impressive. Their creativity and dedication have truly brought our vision to life."

    Brooke Rollag

    Executive Director

    Lake Area Improvement Corporation

  • "Angela's professionalism, creativity, and dedication to our project exceeded our expectations. Her commitment to quality and meticulous attention to detail are evident in every aspect of the work completed. The entire experience, from initial consultation to the final product, was smooth and highly satisfying. I highly recommend Arise Design services to anyone seeking exceptional design and execution."

    Brooke Rollag

    Executive Director

    Lake Area Improvement Corporation

  • "The quality and attention to detail in Angela's work is exceptional. Every aspect of the design reflects a high standard of craftsmanship and a deep commitment to excellence all while being budget conscience. This approach ensures that every detail is thoughtfully considered and beautifully executed."

    Brooke Rollag

    Executive Director

    Lake Area Improvement Corporation