On Thursday, Feb. 6, Wylde Center officially reopened the Oakhurst Garden for the first time since a large-scale renovation as part of its 25th anniversary capital campaign.
Wylde Center emphasized sustainability and accessibility as leading principles in the renovation, including its events and office building, now EarthCraft certified through Southface.
The renovated building still has the original floors in two rooms, while many supplies, such as tiles and sinks, were sourced from Lifecycle Building Center. An old maple tree removed just before the renovation is being repurposed into a conference table.
Additionally, new accessible ramps into the building and the garden were installed. The building also boasts accessibility in bathrooms, drinking fountains, external sinks, and a demonstration kitchen.
The garden itself received new stormwater drains and rain gardens to help mitigate flooding on the Decatur property after a rainfall. Eight native species of plants were added to the rain gardens to serve as a new habitat for frogs and salamanders.
The $2 million project was funded through contributions from foundations, elected officials, and individual donors.
