KINDERGARTEN PRESCHOOL

Chicago, IL, USA

Cathedral of Tinkertoy Trees

Photo © © Doug Snower

Modern Clean Millwork with Swap Out of Doors

Photo © © Doug Snower

LED Reading Niche

Photo © © Doug Snower

Interactive Wall Paneled Play Loft

Photo © © Doug Snower

Loft Seating & Proscenium for Performance

Photo © © Doug Snower

Pretend Play Loft

Photo © © Doug Snower

Niche for Reflection & Reading

Photo © © Doug Snower

Architects: Architecture Is Fun

Location: Chicago, IL, USA
Year: 2012
Client: St. Chrysostom's Day School
Team: Sharon Exley, Peter Exley, Fun Finders, Architecture Is Fun
Lighting Designer: Gwen Grossman GGLD
Custom Laminate - Wilsonart X You: Wilsonart International, Inc.
Flooring: Interface
Custom Wallcovering - Architecture Is Fun Design: Peters Pavers: Studio Printworks

A TREEHOUSE CHAPEL FOR EARLY LEARNING
A glorious gateway to St. Chrysostom Day School, this small project demonstrates how dreary ubiquitous space requiring accessibility, egress and system upgrades was transformed into a relevant, inspiring
685 SF place for learning and play.

Tracery, arches, and peek-a-boo quatrefoils build upon the historic church’s gothic sensibilities. The loft playspace and verticality of a cathedral of tinkertoy-like trees reinforce spatial and spiritual awareness, while creating canopied niches of exploration. The Treehouse Chapel is an appropriate, friendly, and soaring reuse of architecture.

AIA Honor Award – Small Projects, American Institute of Architects, Chicago Chapter, 2013. Acknowledgement of a sophisticated approach in creating a spiritual and beautiful environment for children.

Contract Interiors Small Project Award, American Society of Interior Designers Illinois, 2012. Recognition of significant achievement in designing small projects: award given for bringing beauty and form to a small space for children and adults.