The $27-million reconstruction effort that delivered a 72,000-sq-ft educational facility on a 10.5-acre site was completed in just 12 months. The public middle school now serves more than 500 students from fourth to eighth grades with a STEM curriculum. Completed across two phases, the project features two primary buildings. One serves as the primary space for STEM exploration and learning, and the second is dedicated to school administration and a cafetorium.

Operating between two active campuses and a neighborhood, the team planned extensively to adhere to community rules and time limits throughout construction. Balancing aesthetics and functionality within a tight budget, the team sourced alternative products where possible. One strategy involved turning to local suppliers, which helped the budget and the community. Establishing a project environment that promotes collaboration was also vital. Rather than creating a fortress, the design team sought to balance the inclusion of robust security measures that included controlled access points, surveillance systems and emergency response protocols. Operable glass walls maintained visual connections among occupants and provided ample natural light.