Project Highlight: Horizon Science Academy – K-6 Expansion
"Great architecture is not just about space and form, it's about purpose and impact." - Drake Architecture
Horizon Science Academy, a local charter school serving K-12 students, recently partnered with Drake Architecture to design a two-story addition for their existing K-6 building. This project introduced much-needed new administrative offices and kindergarten classrooms to accommodate the school’s growing needs.
Project Challenges
The project presented several key challenges that needed creative solutions:
Eliminating the Need for an Elevator: Our goal was to avoid the cost of installing an elevator while still meeting accessibility requirements.
Minimizing Wasted Space: Efficient use of space was critical, particularly in planning the staircase, which had to be functional without reducing usable classroom areas.
Maximizing Usable Space: The design ensured that every square foot was utilized to its fullest potential, providing the school with functional and efficient spaces.
Solutions by Drake Architecture
By combining thorough research and strategic design, we provided effective solutions to meet these challenges:
Accessibility Solution: Through careful code research, we found a provision that allowed us to eliminate the need for an elevator. Since the second story was under 3,000 square feet and the first story was fully accessible, we met the accessibility requirements and saved the school significant costs.
Efficient Staircase Design: To make the most of available space, we redesigned a portion of the floor plan by removing a small office, which enabled the installation of a staircase and hallway without sacrificing classroom square footage.
Maximized Classroom Space: On the first floor, we minimized circulation paths, allowing us to maximize the classroom space for the students. This design provided three spacious kindergarten classrooms with restrooms. The second floor offered five new administrative offices, adding much-needed space for the school's staff.
Final Outcome
Drake Architecture’s design not only met the school’s functional and budgetary requirements but also provided a more efficient and accessible learning environment for students and staff alike. This addition reflects our commitment to delivering cost-effective, high-quality architectural solutions for educational facilities.
Conclusion
Drake Architecture’s thoughtful design solutions for Horizon Science Academy demonstrate our commitment to maximizing space, efficiency, and functionality in every project. By addressing key challenges and delivering a practical, cost-effective solution, we’ve provided the school with a dynamic and adaptable environment for both students and staff.
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