FACILITIES


cultural centerpiece: the more natu- ral the fit, the more enthusiasm for the project.


At Pelham Middle School, the atrium is a central feature that showcases the structural system, a visual effect that adds to the design’s quality and interest. At night, this space becomes a strong focal point as the volume and structure are fully illuminated.


Strategies + Value


Budgetary concerns must be top of mind when leaders try to balance stewardship of community funds with the costs associated with add- ing a world-class facility to the sur- rounding area.


When project teams can recognize early on that cost will be an issue, it is easier to meet the client’s needs and set priorities.


When project teams can recognize early on that cost will be an issue, it is easier to meet the client’s needs and set priorities. In the later stages, established priorities are key when design teams must make tough deci- sions. Such decisions may include restricting expensive materials and high-end finishes to a showpiece atrium or grand staircase while mak- ing more practical, cost-conscious choices throughout the rest of the facility. Focusing the most eye-catch- ing design pieces in high-traffic areas optimizes the value of that upgrade. Outdoor views also optimize value by opening a space visually and connecting the interior with more expansive outdoor ameni- ties like courtyards and surround- ing flora. These spaces can extend the inside space, allowing for greater occupancy and making it


asbointl.org


Pelham Park Middle School in Pelham, Alabama, is an award-winning facility designed to complement the “feel” of the community.


a multifunctional area. Whimsical touches like painted musical notes, equations, and literary quotes on walls and floors add unique and creative details to the space without costing much. At Pelham, the facility contributes to the school’s educational aspect by incorporating a series of educa- tional graphics that are inset into the polished concrete floor and located close to their corresponding subjects. The project team studied the curricu- lum model so that the information would be relevant and could be used daily as the project includes depic- tions of the solar system, musical scales, and a world map.


Cost + Space


In most community-funded proj- ects, budgets are prevailing consid- erations. Doing more with less is important, meaning any opportu- nities for materials and spaces to perform double duty present added value. For example, roof joists could be extended to guide water off the roof into an on-site reservoir, creat- ing a waterfall effect when it rains, offering students invaluable les- sons about water conservation and management.


Using available resources onsite for dual purposes and integrating with the surrounding landscape can


provide unique cost-saving opportu- nities; however, other opportunities can draw on the existing landscape and infrastructure for aesthetics. For design teams, it is all about making what they have to work with go as far as possible. For example, concentrating banks of windows in locations with the best views reduces the cost of expensive glass while still creating connections to the outdoors and embracing a parklike setting in the adjacent courtyard. Also, strate- gic window locations can reduce the strain on systems that heat and cool the building. At Pelham, exterior greenspace features two secure courtyards with an illuminated connecting area link- ing academic spaces to the gym and cafeteria. The structural system of the connecting space routes rainwa- ter to concrete receptacles. The effect is a series of waterfalls that pour into a landscaped bioswale.


Unique Considerations


Some specific considerations related to schools and community centers come into play when planning a design. These considerations can also influence finding value. In particular, the flexibility associated with 21st- century learning methods lends itself to optimizing a single space’s value by leveraging it for multiple uses.


SCHOOL BUSINESS AFFAIRS | JULY/AUGUST 2021 39


PHOTOS COURTESY OF GOODWYN MILLS CAWOOD


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