Daycare Renovation

Childcare Center Renovation and Expansion

The site of a childcare center since 1990, this was an 8,000 square foot renovation and expansion on two levels. The impetus for this project was the need to move infants from another location to new space. In evaluating the design options and the condition of the existing spaces, it became evident that the first floor should be fully renovated. The existing entry / reception area was reorganized to function more efficiently for pick-up, drop-off and and parent interaction. The infant rooms were placed in the front corner of the space (site the former toddler room) and close to the entrance. New floor space to the north was added to the center and includes two toddler rooms and a small motor skills room with a loft space. The classrooms are organized around a central service area. The service area divides the rooms into two distinct spaces with some partial height walls. This allows for viewing between spaces, sharing of functions and greater flexibility in staffing. As part of the project, the existing second floor was also updated. Two existing pre-school classrooms and other support spaces had finishes refreshed and some fixture replacement.

The building features large expanses of glass along the façade which can be a challenge for comfort and security. To solve the comfort issue, radiant heating was installed in the floor in the window zone. To enhance security, a white frosted film was installed on the glass; the film fades away as it moves up the windows. This prohibits direct views into the space from the street but allows natural light from the high glass areas. Taking advantage of the high floor-to-floor dimensions, the first floor classrooms feature a sloped, perforated wood ceiling that also helps with acoustics; the corridor also employs this ceiling. Wood cased windows of various shapes and sizes allow for views between classrooms and from the corridor; some of these are close to the floor level so even the littlest ones can get a view.

Role

Senior Project Manager / Project Executive, oversaw the project from conception through the completion of construction. Managed the design team and was the primary contact with the Client.

Firm: KOO LLC

For another type of childcare, the Cook County Child Advocacy Rooms, Go Here. For information on other childcare and related work (including schools, libraries and other civic projects), go to my Projects Page.