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Schramm Park Treehouse Classroom
A Classroom in the Trees
The Treehouse Classroom and Interactive Stream/Canyon Ponds project is the next key step to position Schramm Park SRA to meet the NGPC’s goal of making it the “ecological and natural educational center of the Venture Parks.” Following the successful improvements and expansion that created the Schramm Education Center (formerly the Aksarben Aquarium), the addition of the treehouse classroom and repurposing of existing Canyon Ponds into an interactive stream will provide unique, immersive experiences for visitors to learn about the area’s natural features and experience the beauty of Southeast Nebraska.
Project Details
Location
Gretna, NE
Size
2,800 SF
Scope of Work
New Construction
Date of Completion
Treehouse – Summer 2024
Stream Project – Fall 2024
Concept
Branches can refer to many diverse subject areas. Branches can refer to botany, as in a tree; streamflow, as in a stream that flows into a larger stream; a division of a family descending from a particular ancestor; or a method of organizing offshoots from a point of origin.
As an organizational framework, a central axis with spaces that “branch” off helps delineate different functions.
A treehouse sparks creativity and is a great setting for imaginative play, storytelling, games, and educational opportunities.
The Nebraska Game & Parks Commission wanted an experience that combined the magical and adventurous experience of playing in a treehouse with the educational opportunities provided by Schramm Park’s programs, surrounding, and ecosystem.
The design team worked collaboratively with NGPC facilitating numerous design charrettes and workshops to imagine how we can create the wonder and freedom of a treehouse and an inspiring educational setting.
From the upper deck visitors are able to watch sunsets, observe wildlife, gaze at the sky, or look down to the interactive stream.
A treehouse often feels like a secret hideaway, tucked away from the rest of the world. It provides a cozy and secluded space where imaginations can run wild. The classroom has an open educational room with several cozy nooks on the perimeter. Within these spaces, individual worlds can be created—fostering a sense of independence and ownership, especially for children.
Photography by Corey Gaffer
