School Construction News September/October 2024

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2024 I VOLUME 28, NUMBER 3

ATHLETICS, RECREATION & THE ARTS

BUILDING THE FUTURE FASTER

RAVE REVIEWS FOR ARTS CENTER

TRAINING FACILITY CREATES OPPORTUNITY

FEATURES

Construction Methods

Building the Future Faster: Pre-fabrication’s Role in Modern, Efficient School Design page 6

Facility of the Month Rave Reviews for Sonoma Academy Community Performing Arts Center page 10

CAMPUS PLANNING

INDUSTRY EVENTS

BRANDED CONTENT

COVER IMAGE

Facility of the Month: Sonoma Academy Community Performing Arts Center in Santa Rosa, Calif.

Photo Credit: Tim Maloney, Technical Imagery Studios

2024 EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Mark Quattrocchi

Wendy Rogers

Tracy S. Carusi

Susan Tully

David Johnson

Kirk Marchisen

Pam Loeffelman

David Schrader

Dave Finn

Jackie Avello

Ian McQuoid

Jennette La Quire

Mark Schoeman

Quattrocchi Kwok Architects LPA Inc.

Collins Cooper Carusi Architects, Retired Gilbane Building Company SmithGroup Stevens & Wilkinson DLR Group

Sports Facility Focus

Cost-efficient Indoor Training

Facility Creates Opportunities and Builds Community page 15

SPORTS FACILITY FOCUS

HIGHER EDUCATION

GREEN SCENE

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2024 STAFF

President

Chief Operating Officer

Editorial Director

Managing Editor

Director of Client Relations

Editorial Contributor Production

MAINTENANCE & OPERATIONS

Torrey Sims

Louise Wainscott

Lindsey Coulter

Kat Balster

Sarah Clow

Fay Harvey

Heidi Warstler

Sarah Clow, Director of Client Relations: sarah@wmhmedia.com

Editorial Lindsey Coulter, Editorial Director: lindsey@wmhmedia.com

Subscription Information Louise Wainscott, COO: louise@wmhmedia.com

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In late September, integrated design firm DLR announced Kati Peditto, Ph.D., EDAC, as the new senior design researcher. Peditto is a public speaker and design psychologist with a concentration in inclusive design and neurodiversity. Her scholarship and experience will help bridge the gap between in-depth research and the application of design solutions.

“I look forward to collaborating with DLR Group’s integrated design teams in creating K-12 schools, higher education campuses, and workplaces as environments that nurture mental health and well-being and make learning fun and inclusive,” said Peditto.

Before joining DLR, Peditto co-authored “The Blueprint for the Mind: Creating Neuroinclusive Architectural Spaces,” a toolkit for designers that details how to curate spaces with the experience, comfort, and empowerment of the neurodiverse community in mind. The guide cites from almost 100 peer-reviewed articles related to psychology, design and neuroscience, reflecting Peditto’s expertise in using results to strengthen the user experience.

Tarkett, the worldwide leader in innovative and sustainable flooring solutions, recently appointed Winn Everhart as the new president and chief executive officer of the North American region.

Everhart brings more than two decades of experience leading major consumer brands and managing large-scale operations both in the U.S. and internationally. He holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a Master of Business Administration from the Harvard Business School.

“I am truly honored and excited to be part of the Tarkett North America team at such a pivotal time. I am eager to continue driving our momentum forward on the strong, new path that has been well established by my predecessor and our wonderful team,” Everhart said in a statement in September.

After more than 20 years in the facilities management and services industry, primarily in the education sector, Ashley Weaver has been appointed vice president of Business Development at CGL. In this role, Weaver will be responsible for identifying, qualifying, and securing business opportunities by cultivating and maintaining mutually beneficial relationships with a goal of growing CGL’s current market influence. Prior to joining CGL, Weaver worked in sales and operations for companies like Aramark, Flagship, ABM and Schneider Electric.

The Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS) has named Janet Estrada as the recipient of the 2024–2025 ALAS Scholarship sponsored by Curriculum Associates. Estrada, who serves as principal at Ashley Elementary School in the Denver Public Schools, will receive $10,000 toward her doctoral degree at Loyola University Chicago’s Administration and Supervision Superintendent Endorsement Ed.D. program.

“Receiving this scholarship is a pivotal opportunity for me as a first-generation Mexican-American leader to further my education, be a role model for my sons and other Latinx youth, and fulfill my goal of becoming a superintendent,” said Estrada. “This opportunity will equip me with the tools and knowledge to make a broader impact in education and champion equitable outcomes for all students.”

Estrada serves as board delegate to the Colorado Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents, having previously participated in extensive role-embedded core leadership development in its Four Corners Latinx Leadership Academy. Estrada holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a certification in elementary education from the University of Colorado Boulder. She earned her master’s degree in educational psychology and an administrative certification from the University of Colorado Denver. Estrada was presented the ALAS Scholarship Award during the ALAS 21st National Education Summit on Oct. 9-11 in Portland, Ore.

University of New Mexico Breaks Ground on Center for Collaborative Arts and Tech

By Fay Harvey

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On Oct. 15, the University of New Mexico (UNM) officially broke ground on the new cutting-edge Center for Collaborative Arts and Tech (CCAT). Designed by the renowned New York-based architecture firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DS + R) and built by Bradbury Stamm Construction of Albuquerque, N.M., the CCAT will become a hub for creativity and collaboration within the College of Fine Arts (CFA).

The 59,197-square-foot-center, which will stand alongside Albuquerque’s iconic Route 66, is the University’s first new building on the fine arts campus in almost 60 years. It will serve as a pivotal gateway, welcoming both visitors and 14,000 CFA students into the campus.

Valued at $82.1 million, the project is funded by general obligation and institutional bonds. It will include state-of-the-art rehearsal rooms, collaborative workspaces, and a 600-seat multi-purpose performance hall suited for operas, theatrical performances, dance recitals and more. The concert hall will feature a glass section overlooking New Mexico’s Sandia mountains. Additional spaces will include a 50-seat multi-purpose classroom for interdisciplinary collaboration as well as a soundstage for the film and digital arts programs, a rapidly growing area of study at UNM.

Establishing the CCAT aligns with the College of Fine Arts’ Framework Plan, an integrated physical and strategic 10-year plan focused on prioritizing capital projects for the CFA’s growth, engaging with community members to meet their needs, and sharing the CFA’s story to attract opportunities and forge partnerships that ensure operational and financial sustainability.

CCAT is set to be completed in spring 2026 and is anticipated to electrify Central Avenue while nurturing and celebrating artistic talent and paving the way for the next generation of innovative works, creative opportunities, and synergy between creative departments and artists.

New Facility to Inspire Future Entrepreneurs

By Lindsey Coulter

SADDLE RIVER, N.J. — Saddle River Day School has selected DIGroup Architecture (DIG) to design the school’s new Hall of Science & Entrepreneurship. The 32,000-square-foot academic building will serve as a cutting-edge facility for scientific exploration, inspiring critical thinking and an entrepreneurial spirit among students.

The 59,197-square-foot Center for Collaborative Arts and Tech will be University of New Mexico’s first new building on the fine arts campus in almost 60 years. | Photo Credit: Courtesy of DS+R

Once completed, the facility will include new instructional spaces across 13 classrooms and five small group instruction rooms, which include three specialty learning spaces and four science labs. These new instructional spaces will help support advanced math and sciences courses such as physics, engineering and advanced placement offerings; AI Discovery; robotics; a financial lab; and Coaching Academy and Saturday STEAM bootcamps. The hall also will house faculty offices, an upper-school commons, social and collaborative spaces and a new admissions center.

DIG is leading the architectural design, planning and oversight of the design and construction process. The hall is the focal point of a capital enhancement campaign that also includes the addition of a new turf field and expanded parking.

“DIG’s creativity truly brought our vision to life. The team’s ability to balance aesthetic appeal with functional design resulted in a space that not only meets the needs of our students and faculty but also inspires innovation and learning,” said Jalaj Desai, head of school, in a statement. “The design is both forward-thinking and timeless, capturing the essence of our school’s mission while creating a welcoming and dynamic environment.”

Board Member Spotlight: Delivering a Well-rounded Education

More K-12 schools are investing in facilities that support academic achievement as well as physical health, mental well-being and creative expression.

By Susan Tully

In 2024, school construction is experiencing a transformation, with a strong emphasis on enhancing facilities for athletics, recreation and the arts. This shift reflects a growing recognition of the importance of a well-rounded education that supports not only academic achievement but also physical health, mental well-being and creative expression. Across the United States, school districts are investing in state-of-the-art facilities that cater to these needs, driven by both community demand and educational priorities.

INVESTMENT IN ATHLETICS

A current trend in school construction is the development of comprehensive athletic and recreational facilities. These projects are designed to provide students with opportunities to engage in physical activities, which are crucial for their overall development. For instance, many schools are building multi-purpose standalone buildings that can host a variety of sports, from basketball to volleyball and even indoor track events. These facilities often include modern fitness centers equipped with the latest exercise machines and spaces for yoga and other wellness activities. These projects aim to create environments where students can thrive physically and socially, promoting a culture of health and wellbeing. For example, Gilbane recently completed The Spence School’s new 63,000-square-foot athletic and education center building for the all-girls, K-12 school in New York City. The new structure provides state-of-the-art practice facilities, including nine squash courts, one tournament-sized gym, dedicated team rooms, and support spaces for coaches, trainers and staff. The multi-purpose space in the building offers room to host a variety of school and community events, including performing arts events. The facility also includes a rooftop garden, laboratory classroom, kitchen and greenhouse, which serves as a center for ecology at the school.

ARTS, CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION

The arts are also receiving substantial attention in K-12 school construction projects. Schools are increasingly recognizing the value of arts education in fostering creativity, critical thinking and emotional expression. New school projects often include dedicated spaces for visual and performing arts, such as art studios, music rooms and theaters. These facilities are designed to inspire students and provide them with the resources they need to explore their artistic and creative talents.

Specifically, schools dedicated to Career and Technical Education enhance hands-on

learning and prepare students for modern workplaces. For example, many new school buildings feature state-of-the-art theaters equipped with advanced lighting and sound systems, allowing students to experience professional-level performances. Art studios are being designed with flexible spaces that can accommodate various forms of artistic expression, from painting and sculpture to digital media. These investments in the arts enhance students’ educational experience but also prepare them for a wide range of future careers. Another recently constructed school by Gilbane, East Providence High School in East Providence, R.I., includes complete broadcasting studios that prepare students for future careers in radio and television.

SERVING THE WHOLE STUDENT

The overarching theme in K-12 school construction is the emphasis on creating environments that support a holistic student experience as students prepare for future careers that may not exist today. This includes not only physical and mental health but also social and community engagement. Schools are being designed with flexible spaces that can be used for a variety of purposes, from academic instruction to extracurricular activities. This flexibility allows schools to adapt to the changing needs of their students and communities.

In addition to athletic and arts facilities, many new school buildings include spaces for counseling and mental health services. These areas are designed to be welcoming and accessible, reducing the stigma associated with seeking help. Schools are also incorporating outdoor spaces, such as gardens and playgrounds, which provide students with opportunities to connect with nature and engage in unstructured play.

The state of K-12 school construction in 2024 reflects a dynamic and forward-thinking approach to education. By investing in facilities for athletics, recreation and the arts, school districts are creating environments that support the holistic development of students. These projects are designed to enhance the educational experience, promote health and wellness, and inspire creativity. As schools continue to evolve, these investments will play a crucial role in preparing students for success in all aspects of their lives.

With over 35 years of experience in construction and nearly 25 years at Gilbane, Sue Tully has managed a large portfolio of projects, with a concentration in the education sector. In addition to her leadership role on projects, Tully is Gilbane’s K-12 Education subject matter expert.

Once completed, the Saddle River Day School Hall of Science & Entrepreneurship will include new instructional spaces across 13 classrooms and five small group instruction rooms, which include three specialty learning spaces and four science labs. | Photo Credit: DIGroup Architecture

Modern athletic and recreation facilities often include fitness centers equipped with the latest exercise machines and spaces for yoga and other wellness activities.

East Providence High School in East Providence, R.I., includes complete broadcasting studios that prepare students for future careers in radio and television.

Building the Future Faster: Prefabrication’s Role in Modern, Efficient School Design

How prefabrication helped two Denver Public Schools projects meet construction goals and educational mission.

By Brian Miller

Schools are expected to fulfill multifunctional roles as educational, community and recreational spaces. Academic administrators are increasingly adopting prefabrication to meet the time-sensitive demand for versatile facilities, as prefabrication supports an efficient project delivery model, accelerating the construction timeline while meeting design intent for strong and durable buildings that are the cornerstones of their communities. Two recent Denver Public Schools (DPS) projects — the DPS Responsive Arts & STEAM Academy (RASA) and Montbello High School — demonstrate how prefabricated construction can support intricate designs and timely project completion to enhance these vital community resources.

HOW PREFABRICATION ACHIEVES DESIGN INTENT

Prefabrication offers the precision and flexibility to achieve functional and aesthetic design goals, as shown in the distinctive architectural elements of DPS RASA. The versatility of prefabrication allowed the team to integrate different materials — including steel, mass timber and precast concrete — into a harmonious design that maximized durability, aesthetic impact and educational value.

The K-12 school is a V-shaped, two-story facility that serves an expanding Denver neighborhood and is designed to foster creativity and critical thinking through a STEAM-focused curriculum. In alignment with its focus on the arts and environmental consciousness, RASA needed a design that reflected its educational mission and offered a stimulating environment for students. Using prefabricated architectural wall panels with contrasting shades and patterns, the design team created a visually engaging structure that aligns with the school’s artistic focus. The panels also helped achieve the school’s resource conservation goals, with thermal efficiency built into the design, supporting both the school’s LEED aspirations and Denver Public Schools’ sustainability commitments.

Similarly, the significant remodel and expansion of Montbello High School featured prefabricated exterior walls with custom finishes, thin brick accents and strategically placed spandrel glass. These elements not only modernized the building’s appearance while respecting the existing façade, but also allowed the design team to convey a sense of openness, transforming the decades-old high school into an attractive community asset.

EXPEDIENT DELIVERY WITH PREFABRICATION

One of the primary benefits of prefabrication is the speed it brings to project delivery. By manufacturing structural components in a controlled offsite environment, prefabrication bypasses weather delays, minimizes site disruptions and keeps construction on schedule — especially critical for schools that are operating on strict academic calendars.

For DPS RASA, the project team utilized prefabricated insulated wall panels to expedite assembly, allowing construction to proceed without compromising quality. The structural components arrived ready for swift installation, reducing the onsite labor required

and avoiding delays from inclement weather. This method kept the project on track to meet the community’s urgent need for a new school and avoided costs associated with prolonged construction.

Montbello High School’s remodel similarly benefited from prefabrication’s speed and efficiency, particularly given the challenges of working within an active school campus. With student schedules and community routines to consider, prefabrication allowed significant structural elements to be assembled quickly and with minimal disturbance to learning and operations. The team used load-bearing insulated panels that integrated with existing structures, reducing installation time and eliminating additional finishing requirements for the interior surfaces. This approach enabled the district to deliver a renovated, modernized school on time and within budget, ensuring the facility was available to students and staff as planned.

ACHIEVING SUCCESSFUL OUTCOMES

Ultimately, the success of a school construction project is measured by its ability to serve students and the community effectively. For DPS RASA, prefabrication facilitated an architectural design that functions as both an educational hub and a community resource. By blending sustainable features with advanced building systems, the facility achieved a high standard of durability and energy efficiency, reducing operational costs and long-term maintenance. With outdoor learning spaces, native landscaping and an emphasis on energy efficiency, RASA is an all-electric, LEED-certified school that enriches student experiences and instills sustainable values. Precast concrete’s contribution with integrated thermal insulation aligns with the school’s goals of indoor air quality, daylight access and thermal comfort, all of which support student wellness and concentration.

At Montbello High School, the remodel and expansion transformed a longstanding community institution into a modern learning environment that better supports student success. Prefabricated solutions allowed for a resilient structure that withstands daily wear while meeting the school’s aesthetic and functional needs. The updated campus also incorporates sustainable building practices that help reduce energy consumption, benefiting both the school’s operating budget and the community’s environmental goals. The success of Montbello High School’s renovation was made possible through a strong collaborative approach between Denver Public Schools and its project partners, ensuring that prefabrication not only met construction goals but also contributed to the educational mission.

The DPS RASA and Montbello High School projects exemplify how prefabrication accelerates construction timelines, delivers superior design and creates meaningful outcomes for educational institutions. Through this approach, school districts can meet urgent building demands while maintaining high standards for design, efficiency and environmental responsibility. As schools continue to evolve as multifunctional spaces, prefabrication stands out as an invaluable method that prioritizes the quality, speed and impact that clients need.

Brian Miller has been an integral part of Wells since 2010, holding various positions within the company. As the director of project management, Miller oversees project delivery for the Wells Mountain States region. He recognizes the importance of communication in ensuring positive project outcomes and client experiences. With over three decades of experience in the precast industry, he has successfully managed projects valued at up to $35 million.

Photo Credit (all): Wells

The versatility of precast allowed it to seamlessly interface with the steel framework and the CLT elements on RASA school, shown in the gymnasium.

The interior of DPS Responsive Arts & STEAM Academy incorporates elements of exposed prefabricated walls for a cost-effective alternative to other interior finishes.

Bottom Image: The horizontal sunshades on Montbello High School’s exterior enhance the modern, prefabricated building envelope.

Top Image: Montbello High School’s remodel similarly benefited from prefabrication’s speed and efficiency, particularly given the challenges of working within an active school campus.

The Importance of Inclusive Design Within Recreation Spaces

By Torrey Sims

The role an architect has on student environments can extend well beyond the physical walls of a classroom. Case in point: A new a 24,000-square-foot accessible, inclusive playground recently debuted at Williamson Elementary School in Houston’s Galena Park Independent School District, which serves more than 21,000 students, many of whom are economically disadvantaged. Twelve percent of Williamson Elementary students are enrolled in special education programs. The importance of inclusive design on playground means that all students — regardless of limitations, developmental issues or impairments — can experience the same sense of excitement and creativity with their peers, family and faculty.

A PLAYGROUND FOR ALL

The newly opened, $736,000 student playground, designed by Pfluger Architects, is a universally designed, sensory-rich environment that welcomes children of all abilities. The colorful and engaging outdoor space features accessible play equipment that ensures everyone can participate. The project goes beyond minimum accessibility standards to accommodate the widest possible array of physical and cognitive abilities, including rubber surfaces for wheelchairs and walkers, and a variety of equipment and activities that stimulate creativity and help children develop problem-solving skills through play

Key elements include a winding sidewalk path with control joints that provide tactile sensory experiences, a sloped climbing hill, and a tunnel for crawling, which encourage exploration and physical activity in a safe and stimulating environment. The project fosters an inclusive community where all children in the district feel supported and encouraged to discover their surroundings in a fun and engaging way.

The project, which was completed in March 2024, has many unique components that were developed collaboratively between district officials and the Pfluger Architects team to ensure all students have a safe and fulfilling recreational space.

“One unique aspect is the musical section, where students can sit or lie on the nearby hill and act as an audience, creating a playful performance space. The accessible sidewalk surrounding the playground also serves as a track where students can safely race and play,” said Merri Salazar, project manager at Pfluger Architects.

DESIGNING FOR ACCESS

In addition to these flexible spaces, focusing on students with disabilities was paramount to the success of this inclusive design.

“One of the key requirements for this project was ensuring the entire playground was wheelchair accessible, not just certain paths,” explained Salazar. “We had to carefully manage the grading throughout to ensure that slopes were within acceptable limits, allowing students to freely explore the whole space.”

slope ratio, which allowed the Pfluger Architects team to avoid adding guardrails or large landing pads. This

helped to keep it looking open and playful while still meeting accessibility standards.

Now that the facility is completed and being utilized by students, staff, and families, the feedback has been positive and encouraging.

“We received feedback from the client that classes are using the tunnel under the slide to practice sounding out words and letters, with the echo serving as a sensory reinforcement. This feature has become a fun and engaging way to blend learning with play,” Salazar said.

INCLUSIVE DESIGN TRENDS

While the project certainly is not the first of its kind, it does shine a light on the importance of creating equitable spaces for all students and considering accessibility in all aspects of school design and construction. Not only are accessibly designed spaces becoming more commonplace, but being able to adapt these spaces beyond their traditional recreational function is a trend that is likely to continue.

“We’re definitely seeing a shift in culture. There’s a growing emphasis on creating equitable spaces — environments that are not only accessible to all but are also versatile and can be used frequently,” Salazar added. “The more people who can engage with these spaces, the better, especially when they serve multiple functions, such as outdoor learning environments.”

SEE A VIDEO OF THE GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROJECT.

Key elements include a winding sidewalk path with control joints that provide tactile sensory experiences, a sloped climbing hill, and a tunnel for crawling, which encourage exploration and physical activity in a safe and stimulating environment.

PROJECT TEAM:

Architect: Pfluger Architects

Client: Galena Park ISD

Contractor: Prime Contractor Inc.

Civil Engineer: RG Miller

For example, the ramp up to the slide was designed with a 1:20

Students at Williamson Elementary School in Houston are able to access a variety of playground equipment thanks to Pfluger Architect’s universally designed, sensory-rich environment.

Photo Credit (all): Pfluger Architects

A Biophilic Approach to School and Campus Design

DLR Group honors Douglas MacArthur Elementary School’s history with a forward-looking design that prioritizes health and environment.

By Fay Harvey

ALEXANDRIA, Va. — A year after the official opening of the $75 million Douglas MacArthur Elementary School in Alexandria, Va., the school has seen the positive benefits of Omaha, Neb.-based DLR Group’s attention to sustainability and its biophilic design approach. The school, which originally opened in 1943, is a historical staple in the Alexandria community, but after decades of use the campus was due for a much-needed revitalization.

DESIGNED

FOR

DISTRICT VALUES AND STUDENT NEEDS

Douglas MacArthur Elementary’s ethos is to ignite inspiration within students by fostering their love for learning, while eliminating race, class, gender and ethnicity as predictors of success. DLR Group paid special attention to these modern values as well as to the historical relevance of the school and campus, which originally included just eight classrooms and one common area. The design team maintained the school’s original location and preserved the beauty of its campus while addressing needed upgrades and ensuring a sustainable future.

The school, built by Skanska, now spans 154,000 square feet across three stories and can comfortably serve 840 students.

“Skanska is a leader in sustainable construction, and it is our privilege to partner with ACPS to deliver this modern and energy efficient building to the Alexandria community,” said Dale Kopnitsky, general manager and executive vice president responsible for Skanska’s Washington D.C. building operations, in a statement. “The impact of this project will not only provide operational cost savings to the school district but create a healthier space for students to learn and thrive.”

Included in the new structure are art rooms, music rooms, modern classrooms and accessible facilities. Outdoor spaces include turf fields, new basketball courts and refreshed playground spaces.

said Melanie

A SUSTAINABLE CAMPUS ENVIRONMENT

Douglas MacArthur Elementary School was notably the first school to be designed under Alexandria’s 2019 Green Policy. This required the incorporation of sustainability elements to ensure that the building and campus aligned with the 2019 City of Alexandria Green Building Initiative standards. The citywide policy sets minimum green building benchmarks for new private and public developments, aiming to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions while increasing water efficiency.

Douglas MacArthur Elementary School’s unique sustainability elements include a geothermal system that sits beneath the campus’ athletic turf field to naturally regulate temperature. Inside, low-flush toilets and low-output sinks were installed in all bathrooms, and the HVAC system uses natural sunlight and ventilation to aid in progressive airflow and temperature settings. The district also added solar panels this year to help offset energy costs and to comply with the city’s green initiatives. Aspects such as the geothermal wells and the stormwater treatment will be carried into upcoming district projects as well. To bring these features to life, DLR Group worked with national engineering, planning, and design consultants Kimley-Horn and Associates; national mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering and zero energy expert CMTA Inc.; and Fox and Associates Consulting.

“The green elements of the Douglas MacArthur modernization project have been a success,” said Arte’a Funderburk, CIP communications specialist with ACPS’ Office of Capital Programs, Planning and Design. “The geothermal wells provide a high-performing heating and cooling system. The roof is designed to collect rainwater to recycle for use in flushing toilets and other building systems and the building is solar-ready. The overall design of the school brings elements of the outside into the classroom through natural daylight.”

BIOPHILIC DESIGN IMPROVES SCHOOL AND CAMPUS

Like ACPS, DLR Group strived to place community, education and culture at the center of its design. As the site offered a picturesque natural backdrop, DLR Group employed biophilic design methods and worked with the landscape to enhance the building’s connection to the community and the outdoors. The natural materials and a soft color palette give students and teachers a connection to their surroundings.

That approach continued across the campus as well. Parking spaces were placed underground, avoiding disruption to the campus’ green space and increasing student capacity opportunities. Out their classroom windows, which stretch from floor to ceiling, students of all sizes can enjoy American Elm trees, fresh grass, woodchips and stones borders.

The firm’s approach to daylighting was one of the most significant and visible design strategies, according to Erika Lehman AIA, NCARB, DLR Group senior associate and architect.

“All the major teaching spaces face north, while also getting filtered light through the corridor to the south,” Lehman said. “This allows for minimal glare and decreases the need for artificial lighting.”

Lehman added that the firm focused intensely on HVAC efficiencies during design and construction to help create an effective thermal barrier. Meanwhile, the roof was designed to support a full photovoltaic array, which was necessary to meet the net-zero goals.

To enhance student experiences and aid in transitions to larger learning spaces, the playground utilizes greens, browns and faux wood to match the campus aesthetic. Inside, a new learning stair brings students together to spark collaboration and offer hosting space for special events.

Out their classroom windows, which stretch from floor to ceiling, students of all sizes can enjoy American Elm trees, fresh grass, woodchips and stones borders.

Douglas MacArthur Elementary School’s unique sustainability elements include a geothermal system that sits beneath the campus’ athletic turf field to naturally regulate temperature.

The design team maintained the Douglas MacArthur Elementary School’s original location and preserved the beauty of its campus while addressing needed upgrades and ensuring a sustainable future.

To enhance student experiences and aid in transitions to larger learning spaces, the playground utilizes greens, browns and faux wood to match the campus aesthetic

“We are so excited about this new building and its offering of a modern, welcoming and innovative space where our students can learn and grow and our staff can teach and thrive,”

Kay-Wyatt, Ed.D., ACPS superintendent, at the official ribbon-cutting ceremony.

CASH 2024 Fall Conference Highlights Economic Forecast and Impacts on School Construction

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. — California’s Coalition for Adequate School Housing (CASH) members gathered in Newport Beach for the organization’s annual fall conference Oct. 9-11. The event drew more than 500 attendees from across the state to participate in education sessions and networking opportunities.

CASH — which was founded in 1978 as a response to diminished statewide resources for school facilities — provides advocacy, leadership development, educational opportunities and resources within the school facilities arena. The organization’s advocacy ensures there are state funds to build new, renovate and maintain K-12 schools, according to the organization’s mission statement. The 1,200-member organization represents school facility professionals in both the public and private sector.

2024 CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS

This year’s fall conference included pre-conference sessions on Oct. 9 on how to be an effective leader in the school facilities industry. Topics included using social media to build relationships; how women can succeed in the architecture, finance and construction arenas; using personal strengths to build relationships; and a discussion about leadership concepts and lessons in school facilities. Other sessions focused on California’s changing demographics,

how shifts are impacting districts and what it means for future projects and the use of existing facilities. The pre-conference sessions concluded with a thorough overview from the California Department of Finance where initiatives on the November 2024 ballot were reviewed, including a proposal that could significantly impact the passage of local general obligation bonds by school districts.

The CASH Fall Conference sessions continued to shine a spotlight on school-facility issues in the state, with a focus on specific measures on this year’s ballot as well as a comprehensive overview on how the national and state economic forecast will impact the school construction news industry.

Additional presentations included Designing Schools Based on Healthy Learning Environments and Conflict Management in the School Construction Process. With the proliferation of artificial intelligence, another session covered the use of AI to achieve advanced project design, quality and delivery as well as the legal implications of AI use.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED AT FUTURE CONFERENCES

Attendees can find even more resources and opportunities at the organization’s larger, annual conference. The 46th Annual Conference on School Facilities takes place

Feb. 24-26 at the Palm Springs Convention Center in Palm Springs, Calif.

The annual conference will feature keynote speaker, Dr. Rick Rigsby, a motivational speaker and a USA Today, Amazon and Wall Street Journal best-selling author. In addition, the event will include 29 workshops, 11 clinics, and 23 mini workshops on topics that range from “Navigating Complex Projects and Emerging Trends in Schools,” with moderator Jasmin Osman of PlaceWorks; “Is Wellness-Centric Campuses the New ‘Next Gen’ Learning Environment,” moderated by Aaron Buehring of Lionakis; and “AI 101: Get on Board of Be Left Behind,” moderated by Ryan Tognetti of FLINT.

Along with a packed schedule of educational sessions and opportunities for engagement, CASH’s annual conference also includes an annual golf tournament and a traditional trade show where exhibitors featuring companies, products, services and solutions.

Prospective attendees can also mark their calendars for the 2026 conference set for Feb. 25-27 in Sacramento.

More information about CASH and its upcoming annual conference, including registration and hotel reservations can be found at: www.cashnet.org/page/AC_annualconference.

Rave Reviews for Sonoma Academy Community Performing Arts Center

The award-winning, professional-level facility presented unique structural challenges and meets high sustainability standards.

The 350-seat theater can be configured to accommodate small and large audiences with adaptable acoustics.

By Lindsey Coulter

The new Sonoma Academy Community Performing Arts Center in Santa Rosa, Calif., just celebrated its grand opening in spring, but the structure and the students it serves have already had a big year. In addition to hosting its first full-scale musicals — and a fundraiser headlined by Lucinda Williams — the Sonoma Academy Performing Arts Center project won Engineering News-Record’s Award for Best K-12 Education Project as well as an Award of Merit for safety. The project was recognized in the Northern California Region category for its design and construction quality as well as its contribution to the industry and community.

The professional-grade facility houses the school’s theater, music and film productions while serving as a gathering place for the campus and a community resource for arts programming. The center was designed by Quattrocchi Kwok Architects (QKA) with offices in Santa Rosa and Oakland, Calif., and WRNS Studio, with offices in San Francisco, Honolulu, Seattle and New York. It marked WRNS’s second Sonoma Academy project, as the firm previously served as lead architect on the award-winning Janet Durgin Guild and Commons Building. Multinational general contractor DPR Construction completed construction on the 350-seat Community Performing Arts Center in June. The Berkeley, Calif.-based Shalleck Collaborative — which specializes in theater planning and design, production systems and audio/visual components — served as theatrical consultant.

“From concept to construction, no detail was spared in delivering Sonoma Academy’s new Community Performing Arts Center,” said QKA Principal Emeritus Steve Kwok. “We envisioned a space that — from aesthetics to functionality — would evoke feelings of being in a professional theater, and this was certainly achieved through meticulous cross-team collaboration. The result is a striking facility that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings and gives students and the community a place to create, learn, gather and enjoy.”

AN INSPIRING LEARNING AND PERFORMANCE SPACE

An independent college-preparatory school, Sonoma Academy offers courses in visual art, theater, dance, vocal and instrumental music, visual thinking as well as a thriving performance program. As such, the school needed a facility that could handle larger, more complex theater productions requiring more ambitious stagecraft.

The new 27,500-square-foot, multi-level facility provides enough space to accommodate the entire student body, but also allows the school to develop partnerships with local organizations to host lectures and community events. The 350-seat theater can be configured to accommodate small and large audiences (with adaptable acoustics), while the stage, mezzanine balconies, and full orchestra pit, along with supporting spaces, provide an experience on par with that of a professional theater

Technical capabilities include theater lighting that can be controlled digitally and a Dolby Laboratories sound system. When coupled with the theater’s Christie Digital 4K laser projector, students and guests enjoy a true cinematic experience. That level of professionalism carries over into the catwalk system and the tension grid located above the entire stage area for the placement of lighting and other equipment needed for immersive performances.

In addition to the main theater space, the center includes an Actors Studio performance space, with an adjacent classroom for instruction, and rehearsal space mirroring the theater’s capabilities. Backdrops and stage scenery can be built in the scene shop directly behind the stage. Other spaces include a glass-enclosed lobby, box office, dressing rooms, green room, costume shop, and an additional classroom and storage space on the lower level.

The building’s exterior is a sophisticated mix of metal, wood, stucco, cross-laminated timber (CLT) and concrete masonry unit blocks (CMU). The concrete tile in the restroom

The catwalk system and the tension grid located above the entire stage area support the placement of lighting and other equipment needed for immersive performances.

pod, located in a circular building at the front of the lobby, matches that of the exterior.

The entrance features a wall of soaring windows, offering ample natural light. Circular patterns are repeated throughout the space via modern light fixtures and in pattern of the rich green and yellow carpet designed by a project donor to match the school’s logo and colors. The use of green continues into the seating. The section closest to the stage is a lighter mint shade, with a darker emerald shade around the space’s perimeter.

To achieve structural, architectural and sustainability benefits, the roof of the main floor, along with the mezzanine and surrounding spaces, were constructed with CLT supported by a steel frame. Rather than hide the CLT behind additional materials, the design showcases the natural texture. Similarly, the project team sought to downplay the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, locating the mechanical ductwork in the lobby under a hidden raised access floor.

Another challenging, element of the project was coordinating the PAC’s curved, sloping, radiused seat-front “bow-rails,” which incorporated a stud-framed wall wrapped in veneer wood panels, capped by a curved natural wood cap, with a painted steel and steel mesh handrail protruding through. Every element was designed with very tight tolerances to make the rails meet the slim aesthetic the design team intended, which required exact coordination of radiuses, working points and dimensional accuracy between multiple trades. Several mockups helped determine the final design and the installation sequences. Every member of the project team — including the general contractor, architects, structural engineer, electrical engineer, millworker, ironworker, framer, painter, and electrician — were involved, and the result was well worth the effort.

HARMONY ON STAGE AND ON CAMPUS

As performing arts buildings require volume and scale to ensure optimal functionality, the design team was also concerned about the impact of a large building on the campus fabric, said Adam Woltag, partner, WRNS Studio. By working with the natural contours of the site and breaking down the overall mass and program into distinct smaller volumes, the new Community Performing Arts Center can engage the campus without

overwhelming it.

“The design employs a familiar material palette that draws from the buildings across campus,” Woltag said. “The gently curved interior walls of the house, designed to enhance acoustics, are also expressed on the building’s exterior play with sunlight and shadow, softening the building’s presence while mirroring the natural contours of the hills that surround the campus.”

One of the most rewarding design features of the Community Performing Arts Center are the two large windows that infuse natural light and vibrancy to the center of the building—an unexpected feature for a performance space

“These windows add character to the space, fostering a more informal atmosphere in support of the many community events that occur weekly on the campus.” Woltag added.

MEETING A HIGH BAR FOR SUSTAINABILITY

Natural light is already an important feature at Sonoma Academy, as the school takes sustainability seriously. On-campus solar panels and efficient building design and construction have helped the campus achieve net-zero-energy status, while a rainwater catchment system captures, stores, and reuses rainwater. Existing campus facilities are constructed of reclaimed wood and locally sourced, tamped-earth construction blocks, which use 50% less carbon than concrete blocks. Students can even take learning outside via a pollinator-friendly living roof on the nearby Guild and Commons Building, which uses a geoexchange system for hot and cold water.

The ensure the new facility achieves the same high level of sustainability, numerous green features are incorporated throughout, such as energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems that include a displacement heating and cooling design for the audience seating area. These systems are run by a digital building management system that can be fully and precisely controlled by the school.

The PAC also met or exceeded CalGreen Tier 2 standards for many of its sustainability features. These include solar reflectance on roofs and walls to reduce heat gain and demand on air conditioning systems, meeting water conservation requirements and the

use of low and no VOC materials and finishes. Energy efficiency measures are predicted to result in a 25 percent reduction in energy use above what is required by code, with construction waste management efforts also exceeding requirements at 93 percent diversion.

WORKING WITH THE LANDSCAPE

One important design feature was already baked into the project: its stunning location. The school’s hilly 34-acre campus is next to the 1,000-acre Taylor Mountain Regional Park, and the PAC location meant the design and construction teams had to navigate a 14-foot rise. Positioning and constructing the curved building into this unique site and topography required careful collaboration to address potential safety issues. The team also had to develop a complex foundation and extensive vertical concrete walls to support the building, according to DPR Construction. Thanks to building information modeling, construction challenges and safety risks were identified virtually long before work commenced in spring 2022. This data helped the team plan and schedule so that crews had the necessary space to safely complete work. Also, installing a large scaffold platform inside the theater protected crews working on the catwalk and ceiling and those on the floor below.

Theater design expert Shalleck Collaborative was key to the planning process, especially given the structure’s curved design and the site’s uneven terrain. The Shalleck Collaborative team made key recommendations, such as rotating the building 90 degrees to allow for an easier placement into the hillside, according to DPR Construction.

“The project was technically challenging – building a curving, sloping and irreverently non-linear concrete and steel structure into a rocky hillside; blending aesthetics and structure with the exposed heavy-timber wood roof structure while hiding from view all mechanical ventilation and the miles of electrical conduit; making a wood, steel, glass, and fabric interior that meshed together seamlessly,” said Daniel Berson, project manager with DPR Construction. “None of this could have been possible without the collaboration and partnership of Quattrocchi Kwok Architects, WRNS Studio, the Shalleck Collaborative, and countless more – this project challenged and delighted the DPR Construction team, and we are the better for having been part of it!

“The Sonoma Academy Community Performing Arts Center truly represented DPR Construction’s motto of We Exist to Build Great Things,” Berson added. “For us, that means more than just an aesthetically beautiful building, but something fully integral to both the Academy, its musicians and actors, film makers and public speakers, but also the wider Sonoma County community through public events and showcases.”

PROJECT TEAM:

Owner: Sonoma Academy

Schematic Design Firm: WRNS Studio

Architect of Record: Quattrocchi Kwok Architects

General Contractor: DPR Construction

Civil Engineer: Brelje & Race

Structural Engineer: ZFA Structural Engineers

Mechanical Engineer: Interface Engineering

Electrical Engineer: O’Mahony & Myer

Theatrical Consultant: The Shalleck Collaborative

Landscape Architect: Carducci & Associates

The stage, mezzanine balconies, and full orchestra pit, along with supporting spaces, provide an experience on par with that of a professional theater.

By working with the natural contours of the site and breaking down the overall mass and program into distinct smaller volumes, the new Community Performing Arts Center can engage the campus without overwhelming it.

Photo Credit: Tim Maloney, Technical Imagery Studios

The building’s exterior is a sophisticated mix of metal, wood, stucco, CLT and CMU block.

Agile Learning Environments, Delivered Fast

VS America offers ergonomic furniture that ships within 10 days to meet current learning environment needs. QuickShip products arrive fully assembled so they can be used without delay.

Explore VS America QuickShip products.

SCHOOLS IN MOTION

Creating truly agile learning environments is a vital consideration for modern learning cultures within schools, especially since children can only develop in a healthy and performance-effective way if they get enough physical activity.

This is why schools today are schools in motion: comfortably alternating between sitting and standing when working, dynamic rather than rigid sitting postures, with movement integrated into learning in a variety of ways to keep attention and concentration levels up. Dynamic and ergonomic student furniture makes a fundamental contribution here. Agile furniture can be easily reconfigured to fit an endless variety of educational styles, and can be utilized in classrooms, collaborative spaces and media centers from K-12 through higher education.

See classroom layouts for inspiration.

MUSCLE ACTIVITY = NOURISHMENT FOR THE BRAIN

Scientific studies show that rigid chair-table combinations lead to serious pressures on

physical and mental development and health. Constantly sitting still leads to a standstill, physically and mentally. With VS’ ergonomic, agile furniture, students can sit dynamically and experience physical, mental and developmental benefits

Watch Dr. Dieter Breithecker, health and kinetics scientist, explain the difference between rigid and dynamic sitting, and why dynamic sitting is necessary for student health and well-being in this video. He also explains what to look for in a chair design to ensure the chair absorbs and supports spontaneous activity, keeping the brain alert and engaged.

MOVEMENT IS THE WAY FORWARD

Thinking and learning do not just happen in the head. From the moment of birth until an advanced age, the body is an integral part of well-being and of all intellectual processes. This also includes many intuitive activities that most of us are not even aware of and that emerge rather incidentally.

Researchers refer to these as “Non-exercise activity thermogenesis” (NEAT) (Levine 2002). They include all musculature activities that are not consciously organized and include everyday physical activities such as moving a chair back and forth, intuitive changes of position when standing or working on the floor, moving one’s hands while talking and even nervous foot-tapping.

Furniture in the learning space plays a pivotal role as it greatly influences physiological learning behavior and social interactions. Furniture also creates opportunities for healthy and needs-appropriate behaviors by opening up possibilities for posture and movement.

COMFORT SUPPORTS FOCUS AND WELL-BEING

Listening to what students need is an important factor in fostering engagement in the classroom. When students are comfortable in their furniture, they’re more relaxed. And that’s when they do their best work. The students in this video explain why it’s important to listen to their needs.

GIVE STUDENTS EVERY OPPORTUNITY

Taking care of students is at the heart of it all – and at VS, we know that learning spaces have a long-term impact on students’ physical, mental, and social well-being. Let’s create learning spaces that embody dynamic flexibility, healthy ergonomics, and compassion. Learn how VS’ agile furniture supports student well-being.

ABOUT VS AMERICA

VS America Inc. is a leading manufacturer of educational furniture for K-12 schools, colleges and libraries. Focused on best practices for educational facilities worldwide, VS develops adaptable, ergonomic, and sustainable furniture solutions which allow for the creation of agile learning environments. For more information, visit www.vsamerica.com

HOTPRODUCTS

SPOTLIGHT PRODUCT

Alarm-triggered Rolling Door

Sometimes safety is about who’s coming in — and sometimes it’s about who’s getting out. Developed for educational facilities, medical complexes, government establishments and large venues, CrossingGard® with ThreatProtect™ can help restrict an intruder from moving freely about the building, obstruct an intruder’s view or open egress for evacuation. The newest architectural safety innovation from Cookson, this versatile alarm-triggered rolling door or grille serves a dual purpose: deploying to establish secure lockdown zones during hostile incidents or opening for unhindered movement through escape routes during fires. Adaptable ThreatProtect controls are determined by end-user protocol and tailored to their specifications, meeting the unique needs of a specific building’s architectural design and emergency management strategy. The operating system uses two alarm inputs and a self-contained backup power supply to provide ultimate flexibility in managing threatening situations — an innovation especially suited for educational and government applications. Unlike conventional products that typically close upon alarm activation, CrossingGard with ThreatProtect hinders intruders by limiting their movement and visibility and facilitates swift evacuation, equipping operators with the capability to fluidly alternate between alarm inputs. Its adaptability extends to all areas of a building’s response plan, helping response teams mitigate and neutralize real-time threats more efficiently and effectively.

Flexible Ergonomic Seating

The Hokki stool is a true original, with an iconic wobble that creates added motion and balance, making it easy for children and adults of all ages to be more engaged and focused. The floor safe slip-resistant rubber base features a convex shape, allowing for a natural, 360-degree range of motion. The Hokki stool comes in an array of heights and of vibrant, contemporary colors including red, multiple shades of blue, neutral white and black grey. VS America

www.vsamerica.com

Reader Service #201

Portable Pickleball Surface

Cookson Door www.cooksondoor.com

Reader Service #200

Classroom Demonstration Hood

The Classroom Demonstration Hood from HEMCO is ideal for classroom experiments and demonstrations because of its viewing visibility from all four sides. An instructor can perform a science demonstration while the class can gather around and safely observe. The hood can also be used as an individual student workstation, or vented storage enclosure. A hinged viewing window or optional horizontal sliding glass panels allow for easy access and user safety. An integral exhaust blower safely exhausts fumes and odors. A vapor-proof light is factoryinstalled. A wide selection of accessories including tables and ducting is also available for your specific needs.

Hemco

www.hemcocorp.com

Reader Service #202

Ecore has added a new product to its Ecore Athletic portfolio with the introduction of MODcourt Pickle, a portable, comfortable, high-performance indoor pickleball surface. MODcourt Pickle features an 8-mm vulcanized composition rubber (VCR) base layer and is ideal for a wide range of facilities. Designed with the avid pickleball player in mind, MODcourt Pickle consists of interlocking tiles that are pre-designed to create a temporary or permanent pickleball court installation. Tiles are offered in two sizes: standard/regulation and a mini option for tighter spaces or portable play. The easy-to-install system can be set up by just four people in as little as two hours. MODcourt Pickle is meticulously crafted to strike a perfect balance between performance and comfort. The high-performance surface is engineered for heavy foot traction and remarkable speed with a high ball rebound rating for consistent, high-quality play. Additionally, the product has a force restitution of 17% and an energy restitution of 80%, which helps minimize body stress, provides optimal comfort for serious and recreational athletes alike, and promotes safety and ergonomic benefits while allowing for longer play time.

Sustainably made, MODcourt Pickle is comprised of 62% post-consumer recycled content, coated with water-based acrylic and has 100% organic liquid pigments. Offered in pre-designed colors, the inside of the court is Light Blue, the kitchen area is Championship Blue, and the outside of the court is Championship Green.

Essential Climbing Walls

Upgrade your school’s recreational facilities with EP Climbing’s Essential Walls. Designed for seamless integration into your physical education programming, these high-quality climbing walls are perfect for adding this sport to your current PE curriculum. Enjoy quick and easy installation with minimal facility disruption.

Essential Walls provides an engaging climbing experience for students of all ages and abilities promoting communication, teamwork, problemsolving, physical activity and fun. Upgrade your school’s athletic program with an inclusive climbing solution that meets the national PE standards.

Cost-efficient Indoor Training Facility Creates Opportunities and Builds Community

By Lindsey Coulter

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo.

— Before Cape Girardeau Public School District officials embarked on the design phase for the district’s new $4.8 million indoor sports and recreation facility, they did their homework. Collaborating with incite Design Studio of St. Louis — an architecture and interiors firm that specializes in long-range master planning, new construction, additions, renovations and athletic facilities for K-12 education — district leaders envisioned a flexible, adaptable, and cost-efficient facility that could serve a wide variety of students, programs and community members. They also visited several similar structures across the region to compare notes.

“We didn’t want the building to be just an indoor facility for a particular sports team,” said Josh Crowell, assistant superintendent of support services for the Cape Girardeau Public School District. “We wanted multiple students and entities to benefit from it for years to come. Also, we didn’t want to see in our facility any of the shortcomings that other districts saw in theirs. The value engineering process that iDS took us through ensured that we weren’t going to be second guessing ourselves down the road.”

DESIGNING A TAILORED SOLUTION

Michelle Muir, studio director and client leader with iDS, and Megan Book, an architectural designer who served as job captain on the project, worked extensively with Crowell and other district officials over several phases to deliver the ideal design and to properly orient the facility on campus, relying on construction manager at-risk Brockmiller Construction to provide guidance on budget and delivery timing. The project offered a welcome creative challenge for the iDS team, which has extensive experience designing sports facilities, but hadn’t previously designed an indoor athletics and recreation space intended to serve a multitude of different users while maximizing usability and flexibility. The team also appreciated the opportunity to support overall student success.

“Studies are showing that the more involved students are with any school activity, it increases their

academic performance,” said Crowell. “The district believes any investment made into expanding student involvement with their school creates a positive impact.”

The iDS team brought the district’s mission and vision to life via a 44,000-square-foot pre-engineered metal building (PEMB), which offered the most economical solution considering the structure’s long span and low slope, according to Book.

“Inside the field house portion, the PEMB is exposed using special insulation, realizing it will be hit by a ball or two over time. Also, we included wall padding up to eight feet high for the safety of the users,” Book added. “The locker room areas are all metal studs with gypsum board. On the wet walls, we used fiberglass-reinforced plastic wall panels to keep the costs and maintenance to a minimum.”

Other interior design considerations include colorful branding and logo graphics, with bright pops of Cape Girardeau Tigers orange featured on the lockers.

Space-wise, the facility’s interior is divided between multiple sports program locker rooms, staff offices, treatment room, large storage areas, and a field house for indoor practice and training. The field house portion includes a football field-width turf section to provide a multi-sport flexible space, alongside a divider curtain, retractable baseball batting and pitching cages, and retractable soccer and football nets. The orange and black indoor track also offers pole vault, long jump and triple jump areas.

“The students coming into high school are already exposed to comparable facilities throughout their younger leagues and clubs, so this continues that offering at the high school level,” Book said. “Being in the Midwest, having an indoor recreation space also allows the district to easily work around the weather and continue practices and events when outdoor conditions are not ideal.”

ALIGNING THE STRUCTURE AND THE SITE

While the design process came together smoothly, determining the structure’s ideal location and orientation was a bit trickier. One important consideration was allowing enough space around the exterior for a boom truck to change the football stadium lightbulbs. The

team also had to consider how field events such as shot put and discus could safely take place around the building, how the location would impact student pick up and drop off, and how to maintain quick access to competition fields.

“One of the differences with this facility is that we weren’t worried about how spectators are coming in and out,” Muir added. “This project was all about the people who are using it day-to-day.”

The access problem was solved by offering standard main doors as well as several large overheard doors for easy movement of athletes and equipment and a separate entrance to and from the track and football fields.

“On top of that, we had to consider orientation as it related to infrastructure costs,” Crowell said. “We didn’t want to relocate sewer or water lines or utilities. Where we placed the facility was, I think, a great compromise. Everybody’s happy.”

STUDENTS AND ADMINISTRATORS GIVE THE STRUCTURE HIGH MARKS

The project opened to students and community members in July 2024, just in time for the new school year. Less than a semester in, the facility has already gotten significant use and has become an indispensable part of the school and community, hosting high school extracurricular activities, physical education classes, marching band practice, elementary school Olympics, weightlifting classes and community intramural sports programs. It serves all students in the area, from high school to elementary school and youth leagues, and is occupied by activities and events almost every night of the week.

“The design accomplishes everything that we hoped it would,” said Crowell. “It has already been really exciting for us as a district to know that so many different programs are being impacted by this facility.”

The significance of the project really hit home when members of the iDS design team attended the grand opening celebration and open house. There, they heard how the space has amplified both the student and administrator experiences.

“The head football coach, who was part of the initial design discussions, said that new larger locker rooms have given the team a place to gather, fostering better coaching and learning and offering a space that kids want to be in,” Muir said. “Players who used to leave straight after practice are now hanging around longer and coming in earlier. This facility has created a space where they can spend quality time with each other and become a more unified group of players and friends.”

PROJECT TEAM:

Architect: incite Design Studio

Construction Manager at-Risk: Brockmiller

Construction

Mechanical, Electrical Plumbing: ECS Consulting

Engineers

Structural Consultant: ASDG LLC

Civil Engineering Consultant: Taylor Engineering

Inc.

Turf Contractor: ATG Sports

Track Contractor: Fischer Tracks

The indoor athletics and recreation space is intended to serve a multitude of different users while maximizing usability and flexibility

Other interior design considerations include colorful branding and logo graphics, with bright pops of Cape Girardeau Tigers orange featured on the lockers.

The field house portion includes a football field-width turf section to provide a multi-sport flexible space.

Top-of-class Student Housing Design

New developments in Indiana and California offer more amenities and opportunities to gather, while reflecting their unique communities.

By Lindsey Coulter and Fay Harvey

Two significant new student housing projects are underway in Bloomington, Ind., and Fullerton, Calif. Developed in partnership with DLR Group and Core Spaces to serve students attending urban universities, these hospitality-inspired student housing environments answer a growing demand for more gathering, collaborating, health, and wellness spaces, with a closer proximity to all aspects of the college experience that students are seeking.

HUB FULLERTON

A seven-story, 359-unit residential building, Hub Fullerton will serve students from multiple area institutions, including California State UniversityFullerton, Hope International University and Pacific Christian College. The amenity-rich 700,000-square-foot housing option reflects the relaxed nature of southern California and its student body population. Lush native landscaping, ample outdoor spaces and attention to local contextual materials as well as a rooftop pool deck and hot tub, work and study spaces, fitness center, wellness spa, coffee shop and paseo lounge spaces help Hub Fullerton stand out from others in the area.

HUB BLOOMINGTON

In designing the nine-story, 170-unit residential building, DLR Group was inspired by the iconic Indiana limestone and the shallow bedrock on the site. The 304,000-square-foot housing development integrates contemporary design with local influences to create a harmonious and inviting living space for students, according to DLR Group. The site is located next to public transit and offers ample parking and bike stalls, encouraging students to adopt eco-friendly transportation options. A hospitality-infused approach elevates the interior design standards by blending commercial and communal areas, which promotes a sense of unity, hyperlocality and vitality.

Both projects are on track for completion in 2025, and the Core Spaces Hub on Campus brand is already a fixture on multiple university campuses, with more projects on the way in Berkeley, Calif., and Ann Arbor, Mich.

School Construction News spoke with Nathan L. Casteel, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, mixed-use leader and principal at DLR Group, to learn more about the student

housing landscape and how collaborations between developers and architects can advance and improve student living spaces.

SCN: How has the collaboration between DLR Group and Core Spaces influenced the design and execution of these projects?

Casteel: Core Spaces — a residential real estate developer, owner and operator — is working with DLR Group to help with its central goal of bringing unique and dynamic products to the student housing market. The company’s program is set up for success through extensive planning and market research. The Hub on Campus brand provides amenity-rich, ground-up developments, focused on hyper-local design elements and experiences.

Core Spaces goes to great lengths to really understand the local fabric of each community and deliver properties with the right unit mix, design touches and valuable amenity spaces that will resonate with students and add value to the market for years to come.

For example, Hub Bloomington features local limestone and the interiors pay homage to Indiana University’s rich history of successful collegiate programs, including their basketball team. Design elements sprinkled throughout where storytelling and feelings of genuine nostalgia await tenants at every turn.

SCN: What are some common challenges that arise in developing student housing projects?

Casteel: Designing for specific sites always brings unique challenges, but these challenges offer the opportunity to deliver a product that is unique to its surroundings. Hub Fullerton’s site is extremely long and narrow, so while dealing with scale, the solution was to break up the project into two buildings that relate to each other through design.

Meanwhile, the site for Hub Bloomington was located

on a drastic slope. The terraced stone base of the building related to the shallow bedrock found around the city and drove the aesthetic of the building.

SCN: What are today’s students generally looking for in their housing options?

Casteel: We’re seeing a greater shift in the amenities that students want in their housing experience.

With the Hub on Campus brand, Core Spaces has a standard program they follow, but the design for each location is inspired by the local context of the neighborhood it is a part of. Hub Bloomington, for example, features a bike shop and communal space on the ground floor. Inspired by the Little 500 bike race that goes through the city, the bike shop offers a place for tenants and community members to hang out and fix up their bikes.

Hub Fullerton is located on a busy street, so its design includes a unique outdoor paseo on the ground floor with plenty of seating, access to retail shops and a coffee shop. The quaint outdoor space connects tenants to surrounding buildings while offering privacy and a place where they can study or gather.

Efficiency with unit planning is another area where we’ve seen the most changes. Students want more options for spaces where they can foster connections, study, and spend their time outside of classes. Dedicating more spaces within the property for various gathering areas allows for more connection, focus work and everything in between.

There have also been changes in technology in how people use and operate the spaces in their building, including how tenants pay rent, access the building, reserve spaces and more.

SCN: Can you share more about the upcoming Hub properties in Berkeley and Ann Arbor? What unique elements will they feature?

Casteel: Hub Ann Arbor is located just down the street from Michigan Stadium at the University of Michigan. The housing development will feature an outdoor courtyard with garage doors that open to the property’s amenity spaces and doubles as a tailgate for gamedays.

Photo Credit (all): DLR Group

The 170-unit Hub Bloomington building was inspired by the iconic Indiana limestone and the shallow bedrock on the site.

The housing development integrates contemporary design with local influences.

A seven-story, 359-unit residential building, Hub Fullerton provides will serve students from multiple area institutions.

Nottingham Middle School Designed to Meet

‘Aggressive’ Energy Goals

The new campus addresses overcrowding in the growing district while offering wellness benefits.

By Fay Harvey

ROSEDALE, Md. — As a new school term begins, Baltimore County Public Schools (BCPS) has officially opened the first new middle school built in the growing eastern Baltimore County area in more than 50 years.

The green, energy-efficient Nottingham Middle School was completed in early June and officially welcomed its first students in the fall semester. The 207,288-square-foot, $90.7 million project was constructed in response to overcrowding in the county’s existing middle schools. It can comfortably serve up to 1,410 students and 130 staff members across nine pods in the academic wing. Each pod contains standard classrooms, collaborative learning spaces and extended learning areas.

The project was designed by national firm Moseley Architects, which also led the structural engineering, sustainability and interior design efforts. Civil engineering was managed by Site Resources, while Burdette Koehler Murphy & Associates handled the mechanical, electrical and plumbing work.

PRIORITIZING SUSTAINABILITY

The project team and county officials not only considered the fast-growing communities of northeast Baltimore County in design conversations, but also prioritized sustainability goals in early integrative design planning.

Nottingham Middle School was designed and built to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver standards, and does so in contractual obligation between the project team and BCPS.

“The project team used LEED as a framework to prioritize strategies that would contribute to a healthy, high-performance building,” said Bill Brown, principal with Moseley Architects. “The integrative process that is encouraged in the LEED Rating System pushed our team to meet early and often about foundational issues such as energy performance and water conservation.”

During schematic design, the team established aggressive but attainable energy performance targets that informed decision making throughout the design and construction phases.

“The final energy model indicates more than a 25% energy cost savings compared to a baseline model, qualifying the project for a Designed to Earn the ENERGY STAR label,” Brown added. “This suggests that BCPS will save approximately $75,000 annually on energy bills.”

In addition to energy saving, Nottingham Middle School is also designed to reduce water use. Through efficient interior plumbing fixtures and fittings and ENERGY STAR commercial food service equipment — as well as eliminating irrigation from the site and the need for a water tower — water modeling indicates that interior plumbing fixtures and fittings will save approximately 30% more water than a minimally code-compliant building.

Sustainability benefits school community and beyond

The effects of sustainability will not only benefit the natural environment; students, staff members and even community members will feel the positive impacts of the school’s LEED

wellness-related strategies, Brown added. These include locating the school within walking distance to basic services to promote physical activity, while prioritizing open space within the school campus.

“More than 50% of the site maintained an open space status, and approximately twothirds of that open space is vegetated,” Brown said. “Non-vegetated open spaces serve as recreation space.”

Wellness also comes into play through the school’s acoustic performance, particularly through the reduction of background noise in core learning spaces to support instruction. Additionally, more than 80% of regularly occupied spaces and over 30% of non-regularly occupied spaces have direct access to quality views to the outdoors.

Even the school’s environment is a breath of fresh air — literally. Designers implemented advanced indoor air quality (IAQ) measures, utilizing a Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value 13 to filter outdoor air and capture bacteria, wildfire smoke and respiratory droplets. At the same time, the design isolated areas like janitor closets that are used for chemical storage. Carbon dioxide monitors further support adequate ventilation in high-occupancy spaces, such as classrooms and conference rooms. Walk-off mats also line all building entrances to minimize debris and dirt inside the facility, ensuring clean surfaces to mix with clean air.

Other sustainability and occupant experience considerations include the use of geothermal heating and cooling, and LED lighting controls that reduced interior Lighting Power Density from an allowed 0.99 watts per square feet to a designed 0.55 watts per square feet. Smaller energy savings were realized through exterior lighting, pumping efficiencies and ventilation fans. These design strategies greatly reduce the carbon footprint of the school’s infrastructure.

“Baltimore County Public Schools remains committed to providing school facilities that are second to none,” BCPS Superintendent Myriam Rogers said at the Nottingham Middle School ribbon-cutting ceremony. “Advanced, welcoming, comfortable, spacious, conducive to learning and environmentally friendly.”

PROJECT TEAM:

Owner: Baltimore County Public Schools

Architect: Moseley Architects

Civil Engineer: Site Resources

Structural Engineer: Moseley Architects

Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing: Burdette Koehler Murphy & Associates

Sustainability: Moseley Architects

Interior Design: Moseley Architects

The project team and county officials not only considered the fast-growing communities of northeast Baltimore County in design conversations, but also prioritized sustainability goals in early integrative design planning.

Photo Credit (all): Moseley Architects

During schematic design, the team established aggressive but attainable energy performance targets that informed decision making throughout the design and construction phases.

Streamlining Operations With Maintenance Advantages

How modern plumbing features can support health and safety while reducing repair costs.

By Stephanie Miner

As a manufacturer, Acorn Engineering Co. sees many different educational facilities when meeting with educational institutions nationwide. Still, no matter their makeup, we commonly hear that they all face similar challenges — funding and staffing. When talking about staffing, one might think this refers to teachers and professors, which is undoubtedly a challenge, but let’s dive deeper.

A school or university must be maintained for it to exist. How can it be adequately maintained without the resources for enough staff members and limited funding for repairs? The answer to this only sometimes lies with the institution but, more often, with the products that are being installed.

Technology and product enhancements have improved significantly to make the maintenance staff members’ jobs more efficient. So, instead of spending money on timely maintenance repairs, workflow is streamlined, and operations costs decrease. As recent news has highlighted the fundamental need to deliver clean drinking water within schools and offer more areas for hand washing, these topics serve as examples to illustrate how small changes can be significantly affect the bottom line.

NEW EPA GUIDANCE

On Oct. 8, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency finalized a rule that requires all lead pipes across the nation to be replaced within the next ten years. As highlighted in the nationally publicized crises in Flint, Mich., where the State of Michigan agreed to pay close to $10 million in restoration, lead in drinking water can cause serious shortand long-term effects, particularly in children. Although the ruling does not require the funding to go to schools specifically, many states have indicated that schools are where they will start. Replacing the pipes will significantly help, but the effort can continue as many older fixtures still contain lead.

LOW-MAINTENANCE DESIGNS

Whether students are out at the playground, playing basketball in the gym, or playing football on the field, they all need clean water. The concern is that this requires more plumbing and maintenance, which requires more funding and staff members, so let’s get smart about this.

As an example, let’s focus on drinking fountains and bottle fillers.

Outdated drinking fountains may not only contain lead, but they also generally contain more than 60 parts and pieces. That means that there are over 60 things that can go wrong within a single unit, and multiple parts need to be stocked. Meanwhile, updated and modern drinking fountains have a simplified design with significantly fewer parts and pieces to be maintained. Additionally, they offer design advantages that allow for regular maintenance in minutes instead of hours. For example, maintenance staff may just need to remove and clean a strainer, remove and replace a valve cartridge, or lower a drop-down door to replace a filter — all without lying on a floor and removing a shroud cover. Modern drinking fountains even have an automatic water shut-off for the unit, so maintenance staff members don’t have to turn off water access for the building to perform maintenance.

SUPPORTING HEALTH AND SAFETY

Coming out of the Covid-19 era, additional access to hand-washing stations has also become a topic of conversation. When adding hand-washing stations, there are several things to consider, including space and plumbing connections.

A multiuser station should be considered instead of a separate sink in this situation. This design allows more people to wash their hands simultaneously, while also saving wall space. A multiuser station can also be installed with one plumbing connection instead of requiring individual connections for each sink. Fewer parts, less maintenance, and less time save schools money and keep staff members focused on other priorities.

These are just a few examples of product enhancements that can help speed up repairs. Multiple products in the industry now allow for maintenance advantages that will save schools time and money in the long term. These examples seem minor, but they go a long way in assuring that the maintenance team’s time is used wisely and streamlines the cost of operations.

Stephanie Miner is vice president of Sales for Acorn Engineering Co., a Morris Group International Brand.

When compared to traditional single sink designs (as show in the top image, a multiuser station (as shown in the bottom image) allows more people to wash their hands simultaneously, while also saving wall space and requiring just one plumbing connection.

Photo Credit (all): Acorn Engineering Co.

HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE