Pine Bluffs Day Care

Sited on Main Street of a small agricultural town, the structure had been vacant for decades. Sensitivity to the existing façade was a concern of the townspeople. Careful coordination allowed reuse of nearly all exterior openings, which also allow abundant natural light deep into the interior while reducing the need for artificial light during much of the day. Former overhead door openings facilitate a connection between indoor and outdoor play areas. Canopies provide light control along with intuitive way finding to the entry. Galvanized corrugated metal accents are borrowed from grain silos at the edge of town while much of the original façade materials are retained due to limited budget.

Interior spaces take advantage of high ceilings for play areas and a mezzanine strategically separates active indoor play areas from quieter spaces. Exposed bow trusses form a playful "jungle" for stuffed animals above. The open floor plan maximizes the usable space. Landscaping along the street is xeriscaped. The playground is designed for fun, learning and much needed accessibility and includes plantings and a small garden area for kids to grow stuff.

Location
Pine Bluffs, Wyoming

Owner
Town of Pine Bluffs
Julie Shandera, (Retired) Director

Contractor
Construction Specialists, Inc.
Kevin Hansen, Project Manager
307-638-7570

Role
Architect of Record
Interior Design

Personnel
Lyle Murtha, Principal Architect

Scope
Re-purposing
Design-Bid-Build

Size
6,000 Square Feet

Cost
$.9 Million

Completed
2010