Fostered hands-on learning experiences supporting the environmental, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (E-STEM) curriculum. In one instance, structural calculations used for design of the exposed steel braced frame are imposed on a three-story wall. Exposed concrete slabs reveal the structure’s skeleton and enable students to visualize how their school was built.
Integrated multiple collaborative learning and play zones, including a large rain garden and an elevated green roof learning area, in the Nature Cycle Courtyard. A water feature (stream) collects building runoff, which flows into the rain garden at the base of the sloped play area. This rain garden provides an opportunity for students to learn about evapotranspiration: as the soil filters the runoff, groundwater is recharged, water changes to vapor on plant and soil surfaces (evaporation), and water is returned to the atmosphere through plant leaves (transpiration).
Facilitated highly detailed coordination with the architect so that elements of this outdoor learning space fully embraced the interactive learning experience and maintained a tight budget.
Expedited an early bid package for demolition and site prep, including major utilities and a large detention vault, through proactive coordination with the architect and owner, so that phased construction started on time.
Maximized the project’s footprint by integrating temporary shoring, retaining walls, and vegetated slopes, and locating the geothermal well system below the buildings.
