The Barn School | Step by Step Early Learning Center
Owner: Step By Step
Size: 13,324 sq. ft.
Location: Puyallup, WA
Architect: Jeff Brown Architecture
Interior Designer: Seong Shin, McGranahanPBK
Structural Engineer: C. Christian Fynboe, PE
Civil Engineer: Cecil & Associates
MEP Subs: Emerald Fire, Electric Systems, NW Mountain Air, Tacoma Plumbing, Washington Alarm
Building Type: Slab-on-grade, wood-frame, single-story
Mountain Construction partnered once again with Step By Step to deliver The Barn School, a 13,324 sq. ft. early learning center in Puyallup inspired by Scandinavian models of childhood development. Designed to serve children from birth to five years old, the facility emphasizes free play, exploration, and strong connections to the natural environment.
As General Contractor, Mountain led overall project coordination, managing subcontractors, schedule, budget, and design collaboration. In addition, our team self-performed the concrete foundations, steel fabrication and installation, doors and hardware, and trim carpentry. Working closely with the owner and design team, we constructed a highly detailed facility requiring disciplined coordination, technical precision, and craftsmanship at every stage.
Vaulted ceilings and exposed steel trusses define the building’s open, airy character, while large overhead classroom doors create a direct connection to the outdoors. A custom “bird nest” reception desk and water feature anchor the welcoming lobby, and carefully integrated exterior elements—including exploratory landscaping, pathways, and child-friendly plantings—extend the learning environment beyond the building itself.
This continued partnership with Step By Step reflects our shared commitment to delivering projects that fully realize our clients’ vision and support the communities they serve.
