The Wylde Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental education and greenspace advocacy, underwent a comprehensive renovation as a component of their 25th Anniversary Capital Campaign to transform its flagship garden in Decatur into a fully accessible, community focused facility. Originally a 1950’s residential duplex, the building was reimagined as a light-filled, multi-functional space supporting educational programs, event venue, a demonstrative kitchen, and administrative offices.
Our team played a crucial role in this transformative renovation, installing 160 square yards of Tarkett Linofloor XF2, 250 square feet of floor tile, and 745 square feet of wall tile. A key design element was the use of Daltile’s Color Wheel Retro Mosaic Cube wall tile, which added a unique visual texture to the space. Additionally, Schluter Systems Edge products were utilized to ensure seamless transitions and durability throughout the installation. These enhancements have significantly improved the Oakhurst Garden’s functionality and accessibility, ensuring it remains a valuable community resource for environmental education and engagement.
Most Aggressive Timeline Entry:
The Wylde Center renovation was completed within an incredibly tight one-week timeframe. The scope of work included the installation of 160 square yards of Tarkett Linofloor XF2, 250 square feet of floor tile, and 745 square feet of wall tile, utilizing Schluter Systems Edge products. This rapid turnaround required strategic scheduling, precise execution, and seamless coordination between all trades. Despite the tight deadline, the team maintained superior craftsmanship and delivered a fully transformed space on schedule, ensuring the facility was ready for immediate community use.
Most Maximized Budget Entry:
As a non-profit organization, the Wylde Center operates on a tight budget, making every dollar count. Through strategic material selection and efficient resource allocation, we maximized the project’s budget without compromising quality. Tarkett Linofloor XF2 was chosen for its durability and cost-effectiveness, while Schluter Systems Edge products ensured a professional and long-lasting finish. By leveraging our expertise in cost management, we delivered a high-quality renovation that met the organization’s financial constraints while significantly enhancing the facility’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Nancy Thiel, founder and principal of Thiel Architecture + Design, is a licensed architect and an interior designer. With 40+ years’ experience working with luminaries in the architecture world, including Michael Graves, Robert A.M. Stern, and Rockwell Group, where she served as a studio leader, Thiel’s extensive portfolio includes single-family homes and multi-story residences, hotels, restaurants, retail, fitness clubs, offices, theaters, schools and shopping centers. She is a member of the AIA, holds NCARB certification and is a LEED accredited professional. Prior to her career in architecture, Thiel was a dancer and choreographer.
Thiel Architecture + Design is an award-winning multi-disciplinary architecture, interior design, planning, and product design firm with offices in CT and NY. The firm’s work focuses on high-end residential design as well as hospitality, contract, and retail projects. Thiel Architecture + Design’s work has been featured in Interior Design, Architype, New York and Connecticut Cottages and Gardens, Connecticut Magazine, Archello, and Fast Company magazines. In 2022, the firm received a Connecticut AIA Excellence award for Interior Architecture. Thiel earned a BA from Penn State University and her Master of Architecture degree from Syracuse University.
