Solutions / Design Approach

Honor the Personal Nature of Education

When members of the community visit the Education Center, in many cases it’s related to employment, student registration, or parent concerns; and in every case, it’s personal, so privacy and security matter. In its original configuration, the lobby placed the receptionist in an isolated and exposed vestibule. The renovation has enhanced security that not only ensures the receptionist is protected, but also connects her workstation to the adjacent HR suite, so she no longer feels alone. Access beyond the receptionist is now controlled by RFID cards as well.

Further inside, the public vestibule now features more comfortable furnishings for guests who are waiting for meetings, or for community members who might be filling out paperwork. And while the refreshed interior spaces feel more open and accessible, frosted glass on individual offices and conference rooms helps with both confidentiality and productivity, and gives parents and other guests a sense of dignity when personal matters need to be discussed. Even meeting tables are intentionally shaped like trapezoids to eliminate hierarchy and ensure everyone at the table has a dignified, equitable view and personal eye-toeye level contact.

Build Long-Term Resilience for People & Planet

The use of interior windows and glass doors creates a natural balance of openness and privacy that contributes to a healthier workplace. Previously, the hallways and other interior spaces were dark, but today they’re much brighter with natural light flowing through. Even enclosed private offices feature 18”wide sidelight windows next to each door to enhance visibility and natural illumination. Energy efficient LED lights and proximity sensors are also employed in conference rooms and offices. And a wellness suite has been added as a staff amenity, giving team members a private space that can be reserved in advance for quiet respite and relaxation.

The renovated Education Center is powered by solar energy, through solar arrays installed in the adjacent parking lot, saving millions of dollars in electric bills and redirecting funds to MSD Wayne Township’s schools. Increases in energy costs mean more substantial savings, too. In fact, a referendum that had passed new education expenses onto district taxpayers in 2015 was completely eliminated in 2023 based on the results of these energy conservation measures, and the school-related tax rate was reduced by 11%. The district plans to continue to communicate the value of energy savings passed onto the local community by publishing live data on digital signage and a website dashboard.

Meeting Rooms and breakout spaces were dispersed throughout the floor plan, and different types and sizes of spaces were developed to accommodate various needs. In selecting furniture, a deliberate approach was made to provide various types of seating and tables to offer user choice and a sense of ownership. Interior finishes throughout build on the clear MSD Wayne Township brand, while connecting to nature through a biophilic approach. Technology and electrical receptacles were integrated throughout for easy, intuitive access.