Exhibition of School Planning and Architecture
Narrative
Community Environment:
Challenged with placing 3 buildings and a playing field on an overcrowded site, designers conceived a school that is a multi-use community focal point. The school was situated on the site to allow existing facilities to remain operational during construction. Community spaces are accessible after-hours through a security vestibule. Classrooms pods are uniquely designed to offer swing space for changing class needs. Wood, natural light and bright colors stimulate students and encourage learning.
Learning Environment:
This building is an incredible learning tool! Corridors become extensions of classrooms, with mathematical floor patterns, time-line graphics, maps and display space. “Exposed” infrastructure enables observation of internal systems (fire main, HVAC, mechanical, structural). A kiln is available to Fine Arts classes. A solar clock at entry demonstrates passage of time. Computers in each classroom with wireless capabilities. Centralized gym, music, art, science and library reduce transition time.
WOW! A giant solar clock, historical museum, curved entry, fitness center, acoustically superior band hall—this school is extraordinary. Shifting the classroom configuration from a box to staggered pods provides natural light, and enables ‘swing space’. Rainwater cisterns, daylighting and sun shading are environmentally friendly. Flexible gym, stage, dining and music spaces create day/night uses, with security cameras and controlled access after 8pm. The school is a tool for lifetime learning.
Physical Environment:
Simple, durable materials and fast-track construction methods enable the school to afford outstanding amenities at $101/sf. Cafeteria and gym spaces are ingeniously capable of reconfiguring to become a full-sized stage and seating area. Old entry canopy now shades sports spectators. National grants bought youth exercise equipment. A computer room has night-time community access. A cistern captures rainwater from the roof and provides a water source. Natural lighting maximizes energy efficiency.
Planning Process:
With courage and excitement, the owner expressed dreams of consolidating two inefficient schools into one inspired campus to teach and motivate in a dramatically different environment. Leveraging a $101/sf budget was a huge obstacle. Dismissing the idea that cheap = “box”, administrators, board members, teachers, students and architects collaborated in an inclusive, visionary process. RESULT: a revolutionary design built on principles of “how students learn” and “how facilities effect learning.”