This timber frame pavilion for Rochester Childfirst Network was a labor of love for the children of the greater Rochester area. Imagined as a flexible and quite space for learning about and enjoying nature.
The green roof and rain barrels integrate the timber structure into the existing landscape as part of a larger initiative to replace traditional plastic playgrounds with natural, environmentally friendly play structures—trike paths, climbing stones, and rain gardens that surround the space and invite curiosity.
A contemplative area set back from the traditional classrooms on the grounds, the pavilion houses many outdoor STEM education programs offered throughout the year. The pavilion is also a community gathering space for people to enjoy nature while hosting meetings, events, and other gatherings at this urban school.
Rochester Childfirst Network has been serving children since 1857, focusing on inclusion for children of all ages and skill levels.
For more visit: RCN4kids.org
It is a thoughtful outdoor education space for STEM programs that is part of a natural playground space designed by Barton & Loguidice, and made possible through a community effort with Broccolo Tree & Lawn Care, IDEX Health & Science, and New Energy Works.
"This pavilion is kind of the center piece of what we have done in our backyard over the past five years. We have spent over half a million dollars taking out traditional plastic play areas & climbers and putting in really environmentally friendly pieces."
Jeff Hoffman Director of Development
R.C.N. Rochester Childfirst Network
Architect: New Energy Works
IDEX Health & Science (Foundation Donation)
Broccolo Tree & Lawn Care (Living Roof)
Barton & Loguidice (Landscape Architecture)
Photography: Scott Hemenway
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