Exhibits Case Studies

Children's Museum of Pittsburgh

10 Children's Way
Pittsburgh, PA 15212

412.322.5058 (p)
412.322.4932 (f)

Lois Winslow (contact)
lwinslow@pittsburghkids.org

www.pittsburghkids.org

• Go Green & Get Real, (pdf) Jane Werner (Pittsburgh Children’s Museum), Hand to Hand, volume 20, Spring 2006

Nursery

Project Size: 2, 874 sq. ft.
Exhibit/Project Description:
The Nursery is a beautiful "green" space for infants, toddlers and their families, which is highlighted by soft colors, inviting shapes, historic stained glass windows and a captivating aquarium. Toddlers and their families can arrange colorful pegs on the Light Wall and Table, play with trains and crawl along the Texture Path. Parents have dedicated Nursing and Resource Areas with current information on child development, support services and family fun.

Factors Affecting Decision to "Go Green":
The Children's Museum's commitment to green design for the entire building is reflected in all exhibit areas but it is especially important in the Nursery where our youngest children explore, play and learn. It is a place where young families can feel safe and free to explore with their youngest children. Inspired by the Reggio Emilio approach to early childhood, beautiful artwork and materials were assembled. Natural light from large windows illuminate the area and cast dapples of color as it shines through beautiful historic stained glass. Non-toxic materials including wheat board and wool carpeting were thoughtfully employed and the use of non-toxic cleaners here, and throughout the rest of the building, was a priority for us.

Distinguishing green features:

1. Natural light used primarily
2. Wool carpeting
3. Wheat board surfaces
4. Other non-toxic material used for other surfaces
5. Re-use of historic materials including stained glass windows and bench
6. Natural manipulative materials such as sand and rice
7. Fish tank

Piece of advice for others regarding project:
There is much research information available to support such a project as the Nursery in regard to the use of natural materials and the use of green materials in early childhood environments.