"Where can we begin? From the moment this project concept was initiated, to the final touches on the construction, Sunshine On A Ranney Day (SOARD) and their entire team of professionals made this experience a joy. From the extraordinary lengths their team went through to acquire materials, to working through the holidays and working around staff - their commitment has been nothing short of amazing."
Speaking for the students, parents, staff and many partners at The Cottage School, Admissions Director, Brenda Hall says a mere thank you is inadequate for the renovation design and construction project donated by Sunshine On a Ranney Day.
Holly Ranney, Co-Founder & President at Sunshine on a Ranney Day was equally as thrilled with the partnership. "In 2017 SOARD completed our first special community project outside of our residential makeovers. We wanted to help our community on a larger scale. Our first special community project was to makeover the parent sleep rooms in Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Egleston. Since then we have completed one each year."
"SOARD’s generosity with this project is simply overwhelming. The lobby is the first stop for prospective students and their families who are seeking a new school home," says Brenda. "TCS offers a soft place to land after many of our families have struggled to find the right educational fit for their student. This project has created a warm welcome beyond our wildest dreams."
Sue Collins: What are a few of your favorite aspects of the reno?
The Cottage School, Admissions Director, Brenda Hall: It is almost impossible to pick, there is not one single piece we don’t LOVE! It is truly a custom design - totally unique like our kids. This project contains a variety of extraordinary features, from beautiful flooring to handcrafted and specially curated furniture and lighting. Not to mention a breathtaking feature mural by artist Andy Burt, The Wall Nut, which captures the spirit of The Cottage School mission.
First impressions are always important. "Our administration lobby is the first stop for prospective students, and with this renovation the first impression just blows you away! It’s a welcoming, cheerful place to begin their journey,” says Dr. Steven Palmer, Head of School, The Cottage School. “Working with Sunshine On A Ranney Day has been so impactful. Each member of their team is an inspiration, leading by example, and giving back to the community."
SC: What will students notice first?
BH: There is a sense of light, warmth and welcome when you enter the reception area. As our students come through to meet with counselors, they will be embraced by the calm feeling of the space. A fan favorite is sure to be the wall mural, it beautifully and artfully captures the spirit of TCS.
For first-time visitors to campus, when first impressions are so important by setting the tone for a positive experience, guests will feel embraced by the warmth of the space. The Cottage School has been a “home away from home” learning environment since 1985, and has grown to meet the needs of our students. This project enhances that “welcome home” feeling.
SC: What will teachers appreciate most?
BH: Our teachers work very hard every day on behalf of our students and take pride in our beautiful 23-acre campus. The teachers will love the haven that this space has become. It will provide a wonderful respite during their planning period or at the end of a long day. Not to mention, they love coffee! The coffee bar will surely be appreciated by staff everyday!
SC: This project seems to be the beginning of a lifelong partnership of two nonprofits dedicated to serving children with special needs!
BH: It’s a long answer but words cannot begin to express our appreciation. Our hope is that our actions will. We will continue to partner with SOARD to make the dreams of deserving children come true. Thank you, Sunshine On A Ranney Day, for so much more than just a renovation!
SC: So, this project grew from a visit to your Sunny & Ranney shop by a few staffers from The Cottage School.
Holly Ranney: We started talking and they were saying they wanted to update their lobby furniture and wanted to purchase it all from our store. As we talked more, I was intrigued to go there to see their space. As soon as I saw it, I knew that this could be our 2021 special community project. What a perfect partnership, since both organizations help children with special needs. We knew that we had amazing designers and sponsors that would love to help. I immediately called Jennifer Crosby with Crosby Design Group and she jumped on to help make their lobby what it is now.
SC: It's all about the partnerships.
HR: We are so blessed to have amazing talent to help Sunshine on a Ranney Day. Andy Burt, The Wall Nut, has been doing murals with our charity for almost 10 years, so we knew we needed to have a customized mural. Our long-term sponsor, Real Floors Commercial, did not blink at the opportunity to install new Shaw Flooring, in fact, they ended up going above and beyond to help The Cottage School! Reliable Heating & Air has also been with our charity for almost 10 years and when we call to ask them if they could help, their guys show up ready. It's amazing how many great companies are out there that share our passion toward helping kids.