My Friend's House
LOCATION:
Plano, Texas
DESCRIPTION:
My Friend’s House was designed as a safe haven for abused children ages newborn to nine years old. In order to provide these children with all of the comforts of a safe home, Jim Wilson Architects took special care to incorporate design elements that create a fun and comfortable environment. For example, though several children share each bedroom, the design includes small windows at children’s heights so that each child has a window to call his own. One room, dedicated as the “playroom,” has small-scaled doors and windows and is fitted out with built-in play structures and “places for adventure.” Furthermore, a south-facing courtyard is the main focus from the Dining and Living Rooms, and it includes a figure-eight tricycle “racetrack” that encircles the playground equipment and sport-court. Inspiration for the overall design came from the Arts and Crafts Movement, an architectural vocabulary rich with casual warmth and hominess.
The approximately 9,600 square-foot facility will provide housing for twelve children and sixteen infants and toddlers. The building provides separate areas for visitation and observation, and includes a study and reading room, a play therapy room, a kitchen and dining room, a recreation room, a sick room, and offices for four staff members.
Commercial
Education
