The challenge was to design the new home for an expanding charter school. The chosen site was a 1912 masonry/ stone building of Classical Roman vocabulary. The project consisted of complete renovation of the existing structure and a substantial additon to meet their classroom needs. As an adaptive reuse project, the design goal was to carefully weave new elements of design and function while respecting the old vocabulary.
    One main focus within the scope of this project was expressing respect for the existing building by meticulously restoring the facade. The scale of the facade warranted an entrance and lobby of similar scale. This double-height space acts as the main connector of most of the public areas. A lower level multipurpose room and the second level administrative area both look onto this area. A bridge, connecting additional administrative space adds dynamism to the space.
    Students in the classrooms in the addition receive an up-close view of the existing construction, with the exposed brick arches as a primary elements within the space.


Click to view a large image: classroom; administrative space; exterior.

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