NIC Children's Center

Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Entrance view of the North Idaho College Children's Center in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, featuring playful child-themed metal sculptures, lush landscaping, and a mix of brick and green metal siding under a forest canopy.
Upward view of the North Idaho College Children's Center exterior, showcasing exposed heavy timber braces supporting a sloped wood soffit roof, set against dark green metal siding and surrounded by tall pine trees.

This early childhood facility at North Idaho College was designed to provide a nurturing, safe, and inspiring environment for children of students, faculty, and staff. Surrounded by mature pines, the center blends durable materials like brick and metal with expressive timber detailing, creating a warm, natural setting. Playful, light-filled interiors and thoughtful outdoor spaces reflect the building’s purpose—supporting learning, play, and growth.

A dramatic roofline supported by exposed timber structure defines the building’s identity, offering both visual character and functional shelter for the adjacent play areas. Large overhangs provide shade and weather protection, while floor-to-ceiling glazing connects interior learning spaces to the wooded campus beyond. The design reinforces a sense of place, play, and protection—core to the center’s mission.

Playground view of the North Idaho College Children's Center in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, showing a timber-framed overhang with exposed beams, concrete columns, and a small play structure in the sand foreground.
Exterior view of the North Idaho College Children's Center in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, featuring green metal siding, red brick walls, and wood-accented overhangs within a forested campus setting.

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