PrimroseStudioFrequently
AskedQuestions
Facility
Q: What hours can Primrose Studio be reserved?
A: Primrose Studio is available Tuesday through Saturday from 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. It is closed on these official
holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving Day,
and Christmas Day. Primrose Studio is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Q: How many people can the space accommodate?
A: Most comfortably, the space accommodates 30 people in any configuration. There are tables and seating
available for up to 36, but only in the classroom configuration. No outside seating may be brought into the
studio.
Q: Is Primrose Studio handicap accessible?
A: Yes, the studio, deck and restrooms are all handicap accessible. There is also a ramp to the packed gravel
accessible trail leading to an overlook of Claymore Lake. There is one handicap parking space.
Q: Can I see the facility before I book it?
A: Yes. You may set up an appointment to view Primrose Studio with the facility attendant, Tim LaBaw. He
can be reached at 970-219-2158 by phone or at [email protected] by e-mail.
Q: What is the address for Primrose Studio? How do I get there?
A: Primrose Studio is at 4300 Michaud Lane, Fort Collins, CO 80521.
From Laporte Avenue, take Overland Trail Road north 1.5 miles to Michaud Lane. Go west one mile to
Reservoir Ridge Natural Area. Go through the parking lot to the gate located in the northwest corner. Travel
0.25 miles along Claymore Lake to Primrose Studio. Please obey posted speed limits.
Q: How can the space be configured?
A: The most popular configuration of the studio is in a U-shape facing the white board and projection screen.
This configuration accommodates only 30 people. Rows of tables and chairs in a classroom configuration can
accommodate up to 36 people, though there is little elbow room. Multiple tables can be combined to create a
large conference-like table. Smaller clusters of tables and chairs in a banquet style are another option. For
higher occupancies simply having chairs in rows without tables can be more comfortable.
Q: Can we rearrange the room into a different configuration?
A: The facility attendant will set up the room to your specifications prior to your event. You may rearrange the
room if desired. It is recommended that you let the facility attendant know so you can be instructed in how to
work the tables and chairs without injury or damage to the premises. You are responsible for any damage. When
rearranging the room you may not block access to any exits.
Q: How do I get into the facility on the day of our event?
A: Both gates at the Reservoir Ridge parking lot will be opened at the start time on your contract. The facility
attendant will meet you at the studio and give you a brief orientation.
It is important that you schedule your reservation with 30 minutes lead time before your event begins to
accommodate this orientation and allow any presenters or caterers time to set things up.
Q: How do I lock up the facility after our event?
A: The facility attendant will be there at the conclusion of your reserved time to secure the facility after your
departure.
Q: When can I get into Primrose Studio for my event?
A: You are allowed to occupy the premises for the hours indicated on your license agreement. The times on the
license agreement should include 30 minutes before and after your event times. This allows time for orientation,
set-up and clean-up. Keep in mind that Primrose Studio is only open 8 a.m. – 10 p.m. and any events held at the
studio should begin no earlier than 8:30 a.m. or end later than 9:30 p.m.
Q: What business amenities are available at Primrose Studio?
A: Primrose Studio is equipped with the following:
 Whiteboard approximately 8 ft X 4 ft with markers and eraser
 Projection screen
 Two easels
 Wi-Fi Internet (unsecured)
 Tack strips and pins
If required, you will need to provide the following:
 Computer
 Projector
 Flip charts, markers
Q: You say you strive for zero waste. How do we assist in that effort?
A: Choosing caterers and food providers that minimize packaging and using the provided dishes and serving
ware instead of disposables makes a big difference in our trash output.
We have a recycling receptacle in addition to the trash. Please ask your guests to follow the posted recycling
guidelines. Once contaminated with food or liquids the recycling contents become trash! In brief, the following
can be recycled:
 Papers, file folders, envelopes, brochures, magazines and newspapers, all dry and clean
 Cardboard that is not food-soiled or waxed
 Empty aluminum and tin cans, rinsed
 Empty bottles and jars, rinsed
 Empty plastic containers #1-#7, rinsed
 Aluminum trays, cleaned
Q: Can we decorate Primrose Studio for our event?
A: Primrose Studio is a beautifully designed space surrounded by the natural outdoors so no decoration is
required. If you need to personalize the space, please abide by the following guidelines:
 Decorate only the tables and countertops
 Nothing may be attached to the walls, artwork, ceiling, floor, or deck
 Use the tack strips above the windows if needed
 Do not use confetti, glitter, birdseed or rice
 Candles must be in sturdy holders with the flame fully contained
Q: What do we do if we have more than 15 vehicles for our event?
A: The parking lot accommodates 15 cars, you may not exceed this capacity. We strongly encourage you to ask
your guests to carpool. There is also a bike rack at Primrose.
Only park in designated spaces so emergency vehicles can safely access Primrose Studio if required.
Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Dogs are not allowed at Primrose Studio. Please leave your dog at home and come back to hike the adjacent
Reservoir Ridge Natural Area with your dog at another time.
Q: Can I smoke at Primrose Studio?
A: Smoking is prohibited in all City owned or operated facilities and their grounds, and all City Parks,
trails, and natural areas.
Q: How do we access Claymore Lake?
A: There is a handicap accessible trail (packed crushed gravel) from the deck leading to a bench with a scenic
view of the lake. Claymore Lake is privately owned and there is no public access to the shore or water.
Q: Is there a trail connection between Primrose Studio and Reservoir Ridge Natural Area or the Foothills
Trail?
A: No. Access to Reservoir Ridge Natural Area is only available from the trailhead parking lot at the west end
of Michaud Lane, or the Centennial Drive trailhead. To connect Primrose Studio and Reservoir Ridge Natural
Area, use the road between the Michaud Lane trailhead and Primrose Studio. For your safety and to protect
wildlife and plants, off-trail travel is not allowed.
Q: Can we set up recreational equipment like a volleyball net, croquet set or bocce ball in the area
around the studio?
A: For your safety and that of the wildlife and plants, the area surrounding Primrose Studio is closed to off-trail
use. You may not set up any recreation equipment.
Q: How do we prevent bugs?
A: Please keep all doors closed during your event to keep bugs outside. If you need natural ventilation the
windows are equipped with screens. It is also recommended that you bring a Deet-based mosquito repellant.
Citronella candles are not permitted.
ReservationsandCancellations
Q: How much does it cost to reserve the Primrose Studio?
A: The administrative fee is $200 for up to 5 hours and $40 per additional hour. For government agencies,
schools and other non-profit organizations the fee is $100 for up to 5 hours and $20 per additional hour.
Q: How early can I reserve Primrose Studio?
A: Non-City groups may make reservations up to three (3) months in advance. City groups may reserve
Primrose Studio up to twelve (12) months in advance. Environmental education programs, meetings and
activities may also reserve the studio up to twelve (12) months in advance.
Q: How far in advance must Primrose Studio be reserved?
A: The completed license agreement and payment of the administrative fee must be received by the Natural
Areas Department no later than fourteen (14) days before the beginning of the reserved term.
Q: How do I reserve Primrose Studio?
A: Please call or e-mail the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department at 970-416-2815 or
[email protected] with your requested date, time, type of event, number of people attending and desired
room configuration. We will then be in contact with you about the availability of your requested time. If
available, you will need to fill out a license agreement which will be e-mailed to you and pay the administrative
fee to secure your desired date and time.
Reservations are not confirmed nor the dates and times held until both the completed license agreement and
payment of the administrative fee is received by the Natural Areas Department.
Q: How do I return the completed license agreement?
A: You may mail, fax or e-mail a scan of the completed license agreement to the Natural Areas Department.
You may also drop it off in person at our office. Since Primrose Studio is a popular venue using the most
expedient method available to you ensures your desired date and time is still available.
Q: How can I pay the administrative fee?
A: The administrative fee may be paid via check, Discover, Visa or MasterCard. Checks may be mailed or
dropped off at our office at 1745 Hoffman Mill Road, Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. A credit card number
may be given over the phone or brought in to the office. Since Primrose Studio is a popular venue using the
most expedient method available to you ensures your desired date and time is still available.
Q: If I need to cancel my reservation will I get a refund?
A: If you cancel with 30 days or more notice you will get a full refund of the administrative fee. Notices of
cancellation less than 30 days in advance will not receive a refund.
Q: My event is not an event for profit. Can I get the non-profit rate on the administrative fee?
A: To qualify for the non-profit rate you must be a 501(c3) designated non-profit organization, school or
government organization.
Events
Q: What type of events can be held at Primrose Studio?
A: Primrose Studio is a popular destination for company retreats and meetings. Workshops and classes on a
wide variety of topics have been held there. It is also a great location for special events such as small weddings,
anniversary parties, showers, family gatherings and more.
Q: Can Primrose Studio accommodate artist groups?
A: Yes, though pottery/clay classes are not allowed. Depending upon the type of artistic group the facility may
have protection for the floor and tables in place upon your arrival. If these protective measures are not left in
place and damage is sustained you will be held liable.
It is also your responsibility to protect our chairs, countertops, windowsills, walls and deck. If you plan to create
on the deck, please provide your own heavy duty tarps and painters blue masking tape.
Cleanup of paints and other toxic supplies must be done in the large sink along the west wall. Please do not
clean brushes in the bathroom or kitchen sinks.
Q: Can we sell our art at Primrose Studio?
A: The facility may not be used for promotions, sales or other commercial activities. No money should
exchange hands on the premises.
Q: May we charge participants for classes, activities or events held at Primrose Studio?
A. Yes. No money should exchange hands on the premises.
Q: Can I hold a political fundraiser or rally at Primrose Studio?
A: Per the Use Policy, Primrose Studio may not be used to influence a ballot measure or promote or oppose a
candidate for political office.
Q: What is considered an environmental education program, meeting or activity?
A: Environmental education means teaching and learning about the natural environment, its effects on humans,
and impacts of humans on the environment. This includes conservation and sustainability of all natural
resources. The goal of environmental education is to increase knowledge and awareness about the environment
and to promote stewardship of natural resources.
FoodandBeverages
Q: Can we serve food and beverages at our event at Primrose Studio?
A: Yes, you may serve food and non-alcoholic beverages at the studio. There is a full kitchen with full service
for 36 that may be used for no additional charge. A large countertop along the west wall may be used for food
service.
Q: Do you provide food and beverages?
A: We do not provide food or beverages. You must make your own arrangements. When contacting a caterer let
them know you have access to non-disposable dishes and ask them reduce their use of disposable items.
Q: What kitchen amenities are available at Primrose Studio?
A: There is a small kitchen, equipped with the following for use at no additional charge:
 Refrigerator and freezer
 Oven and range with ventilation hood
 Microwave
 Toaster
 Sink
 Coffeepot and filters
 Teapot
 Dishwasher
 Full service for 36, including plates, bowls, cups, saucers, serving dishes and silverware
 Trash and recycling receptacles, please follow the posted guidelines
 Serving counter along west wall
If required, you will need to provide the following:
 Coffee, tea, creamer, sweeteners etc.
 Pots and pans
 Ice
 Food
 Beverages
Q: Can we bring in a small kitchen appliance that is not provided such as a waffle iron, indoor grill or
the like?
A: Yes, you may bring in other small kitchen appliances. Any preparation of food using an appliance not
provided must be performed beneath or near the exhaust hood of the kitchen’s stovetop.
Q: Can we have a champagne toast or wet bar at our event?
A: No, alcoholic beverages are not allowed at Primrose Studio.
Q: Can we grill or barbeque at Primrose Studio?
A: You may grill in accordance with any current city, county or state fire restrictions. The fire must be
contained in an approved appliance located in the graveled portion of the parking lot only.
Q: With your stance of reducing waste, can we leave behind our unused disposables such as plates,
napkins and plastic silverware for the next group?
A: Primrose Studio is limited in storage space and cannot accommodate unused disposables. If you bring in
disposable items, please take them with you.
Q: Can we leave our leftovers for the facility attendant or the next group?
A: No. Please take with you whatever you brought into the facility. This includes food, ice, beverages, plates,
napkins and silverware.