Sandy Hill Childcare Centre
Following a devastating fire in late 2022 that displaced Sandy Hill Childcare from its long-standing location, CSV Architects was engaged to renovate and adapt a new home for the centre at 5 Myrand Avenue in Ottawa. The priority for this project was to restore safe and functional childcare services for the community as quickly as possible.
The building—originally a two-storey teachers’ residence built over 30 years ago—had undergone several transformations, serving as offices before its adaptation into a childcare centre. The renovation required a change in occupancy from business/personal services to assembly use and focused on delivering a compliant, safe, and welcoming environment for young children and staff.
Supporting Early Learning Through Design
Designed to accommodate 44 children—including 20 toddlers and 24 preschoolers—the new facility supports Sandy Hill Child Care’s play-based learning philosophy, which emphasizes creativity, outdoor play, and exploration.
Space to Grow, Play, and Explore
The centre offers a variety of experiences including sensory play, art, role play, gross motor development, and nature-based learning. With a strong emphasis on time spent outdoors, children are encouraged to explore natural materials like pinecones, rocks, and logs, fostering curiosity and confidence in a safe, nurturing environment.
Healthy Habits Start Here
Nutrition is also a core component of the centre’s program. Meals and snacks are prepared on-site following holistic culinary practices and Canada's Food Guide. Children enjoy family-style dining that models healthy eating habits and accommodates dietary needs.
Design Approach
Both indoor and outdoor spaces were designed to support the developmental needs of young children and reflect the centre’s commitment to fostering belonging, well-being, and curiosity. The renovation prioritized essential work for rapid re-occupancy, with flexibility for future enhancements.
This project reflects CSV’s commitment to supporting long-standing community organizations like Sandy Hill Childcare—an inclusive, licensed facility serving families in Ottawa since 1973—through thoughtful, code-compliant design that enables vital programs to continue with minimal disruption.