Kids Science Labs 02

Chicago, Illinois

Kids Science Labs is a hands-on science learning center for kids aged 2-12 based on the premise that kids are curious. The company's founders don't focus on a chemical reaction or mathematical equation, they encourage exploration to bring science alive. They wanted their 7,900sf Learning & Discovery Lab (in a loft building in Chicago's South Loop) to be a place where kids could wonder HOW their world works and ask WHY—and we wanted to make architecture a protagonist in that experience. Beyond the see-through welcome desk, are two kinds of space for (1) independent discovery and exploration—a meandering, interlocking puzzle of blackboard question wall (how does TV work?), corrugated orange container (what's in there?), tall windows (what's out there?) and for (2) interactive learning based on (often boisterously messy) experience, not explanation—wood-clad laboratory pavilions with writable walls, cork floors, suspended felt acoustical baffles, and wide-opening glazed garage doors. Around the corner, the elongated, wood-lined, Accelerator Space is where kids can really let go, experimenting with with homemade catapults and Coke and Mentos rockets.  Materials are tough, durable and natural: maple veneer plywood, common brick, concrete, glass, cork, painted corrugated metal, blackboard, & cardboard mailing tubes.

Recognition

2014 AIA Chicago Interior Architecture Award

Architects + Artisans, www.architectsandartisans.com, 03.24.2015

Project Data

Area/Budget: 7,900sf / $450,000

Scope: 7,900sf renovation for second learning center offering hands-on science, problem solving, and creative design classes for kids 2-12 to explore the principles of science

Project Team: David Woodhouse, Andy Tinucci (project architect), Ed Blumer, Nathan Bowman, Shaun Danielson, Brian Foote

Farr Associates (architect of record); CCJM (mep); Friedler Construction (general contractor)

Photographer: Mike Schwartz