Securing the right environment for a preschool program requires planning and research. Administrators or searching parties are advised to study zoning codes to become acquainted with state sanitation and safety regulations and laws, to involve teachers in cooperative planning, to design facilities which discourage vandalism, facilitate mainstreaming, and promote sanitation, learning and enjoyment, and to understand the extent of the operator's legal responsibilities. Planners must also consider the outside play area. Adequate play space, safe driveways and parking spaces, additional space for expansion of services, outdoor storage areas, fencing, and windside protection should be taken into account. Buildings should be evaluated in terms of areas available for wet and dry areas, adequate heat and lighting, permanent and moveable stations, and space for quiet and noisy activities. Additionally, characteristics and needs of children, the limits that the building places on children's behavior, and the relationship of activities to the building as a whole must be considered. While the building should be energy-efficient, solar heating may not be cost-effective. Renovation of existing structures provides some advantages but demands a detailed preliminary inspection of building roof and frame, electrical wiring, plumbing, heating and cooling, as well as exterior covering and interior finishes. Appropriate equipment should be purchased for durability, versatility and overall attractiveness. (Author/RH)