North Branch District Education Center

North Branch, Minnesota

Firm

ATSR Planners/Architects/Engineers

Client

North Branch Public Schools

Area

74,905 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$14,084,608

Completion Date

01/2020

Troy Thies Photography

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The kindergarten addition and Early Childhood Learning renovation at the North Branch DEC adds six classrooms and renovates three existing spaces. A secure courtyard playground provides visual connections and natural light to spaces. A large motor room and renovated child-centered media area with a “learning tree” was designed for expanded student learning.

The facility’s interior was “rebuilt” with new windows, new heating/ventilation/air-conditioning, boilers, chiller, electrical distribution, low-voltage technology, new finishes, and furniture. Energy efficiency was a top goal for the mechanical upgrades.

Furniture enhances learning experiences for students. A pilot program provided various furniture options. Staff had a say in the selections. Built-in colored window eaves in rooms match the furniture and finish colors, providing seating variety, dramatic play, and learning settings. Color is ubiquitous: at floors, walls, ceilings, courtyard glass, main entry arches, skylights, and window fins. The kids love the color.