Reclaiming Nature: Inside The Fluvarium’s Transformation into The Lilypad Childcare Center
Located in the heart of St. John’s, Newfoundland, a once-forgotten public park building has been thoughtfully transformed into The Lilypad Childcare Center—a nature-based early learning space designed by Woodford Architecture. Located in the Fluvarium, a timber-framed structure originally built in the 1980s for environmental education, the project revitalizes not only the architecture but its role in the community. The result is a child-centered environment that fosters curiosity, connection, and holistic development through immersive outdoor experiences. We spoke with the architects about their approach to adaptive reuse, designing for children, and bringing new life to a cherished local landmark.
published with bowerbird photography by Jane Brokenshire
What inspired the transformation of The Fluvarium into The Lilypad Childcare Center?
The project was born from a desire to reimagine an underused space and give it new life in service of children, families, and the wider community. The Lilypad centers its philosophy around immersive, nature-based learning—so revitalizing a timber structure nestled in the heart of St. John’s largest urban park was a perfect fit. The building’s bones were strong; it just needed its story rewritten.
How does the architecture reflect the center’s nature-based, holistic learning philosophy?
Each classroom connects directly to the outdoors, allowing children to flow between interior and natural environments seamlessly. Circular windows and low partitions create openness and visual connection throughout the space, mirroring the values of inclusion, exploration, and curiosity. The architecture doesn’t just house the philosophy—it actively supports and nurtures it.
What were some of the biggest challenges in working with the original 1980s building?
Years of piecemeal renovations had compromised the original vision. The timber structure was hidden, the rooms were chopped up, and the spatial coherence was lost. We had to carefully peel back layers—both literal and conceptual—to recover the building’s integrity while adapting it for a very different use. Reclaiming natural light and sightlines was a key priority.
How did the design respond to the building’s unique octagonal plan?
Rather than work against the geometry, we embraced it. The octagonal form became a natural framework for organizing classrooms and shared spaces, creating a sense of rhythm and flow. High ceilings and angled walls give each room a distinct character, while still feeling part of a cohesive whole.
How does the building’s location in Pippy Park enhance the experience for children?
Pippy Park offers over 3,000 acres of woodlands, waterways, and wildlife. Children are not just learning about nature—they’re learning in it. The proximity to Nagle’s Brook, where fish can be observed in their habitat, adds a rich ecological dimension to the curriculum. It’s a rare blend of architecture and landscape that fosters wonder and environmental stewardship.
What does this project say about the role of adaptive reuse in educational design?
The Fluvarium shows that thoughtful reuse can go far beyond sustainability—it can be transformative. By retaining the character of the original building while making it responsive to contemporary needs, we created a space that’s deeply rooted in place, purpose, and potential. It’s a model for how forgotten civic infrastructure can be reimagined to serve the next generation.