West Ascension Early Learning Center

Multistudio has transformed the historic Lemann Building into the West Ascension Early Learning Center, a beacon of opportunity for early childhood education in Donaldsonville, Louisiana.

Funded with resources originally allocated for a local Juvenile Detention Center, this project represents a powerful shift toward community investment and educational access. The Lemann Building, a fixture in Donaldsonville for over 150 years, has served as more than just a commercial space—it has been a social hub and a testament to the community's resilience.

In collaboration with the Parish of Ascension, Multistudio has reimagined this landmark, ensuring its legacy continues as a place for learning and growth. Donaldsonville, the first city in the U.S. to elect a Black mayor, has a long-standing tradition of leadership and reform. This project aligns with the city’s history of championing education and infrastructure, continuing its commitment to progress and equity.

Designed to support children from infancy through age three, the Center is inspired by the Perry Preschool Project, a pioneering initiative in early childhood education. By prioritizing access to high-quality learning experiences, the project fosters long-term positive outcomes for children and strengthens the community fabric.

The transformation of the Lemann Building was made possible through the partnership between Ascension Parish Government, Nicholls State University, CF Industries, the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, B.E.T. Construction Inc., and Lucien T. Vivien, Jr. and Associates, Inc. The project was funded by the Juvenile Justice Program Fund, reinforcing a commitment to education over incarceration.

While sustainability was a key factor, this project goes beyond adaptive reuse—it reclaims a historic space to serve as a cornerstone for opportunity and connection. The West Ascension Early Learning Center embodies a commitment to strengthening communities through thoughtful design and meaningful investment in education.