This adaptive reuse project transforms a former gymnasium within UC Berkeley’s historic Clark Kerr Campus into a 3,200-square-foot daycare facility designed to support early childhood education and care.

The renovation reorganizes the existing space to provide new children’s and staff restrooms, expanded office and storage areas, and significant improvements to the main classroom. A new food-preparation kitchen, storage cubbies, cabinetry, and upgraded lighting provide the functional infrastructure needed for the daycare program.

Particular attention was given to the acoustical environment. New acoustical treatments help control sound and reduce reverberation within the existing concrete building shell, creating a more comfortable environment for children and staff.

The project demonstrates how an existing institutional building can be adapted for a very different use through targeted interventions that improve functionality, comfort, and the quality of the learning environment while retaining and reusing the original structure.