Hord Coplan Macht is continuing our successful relationship with AACPS on this revitalization project for the Edgewater Elementary School. This project began with a conceptual design phase to determine how best to improve and expand this existing 52,000 square foot school while maintaining the occupancy and operation of the existing facility. HCM worked closely with AACPS and the school leadership to design a 45,000 sf addition along with the renovation of the existing facility.
In addition to addressing the program deficiencies and the replacement of all key mechanical and electrical systems and components, the project was designed to allow the school to remain functioning while the phased construction occurred. The need to phase the work had a significant impact on the design, leading to a solution that allowed key functions and spaces to remain in use while new/replacement spaces were built.
The addition contains the new main entrance and administrative suite, a new gymnasium, food service spaces, music rooms and the Learning Studios—multipurpose, project-based learning rooms that support a variety of instructional activities. The addition created a new enclosed courtyard, which provides new outdoor learning opportunities. The relocated art room and the two Learning Studios both have direct access to the courtyard along with several classrooms. The gym and dining spaces are designed to allow for convenient after-hours use and separation. The relocated main entry and administration areas led to the re-arrangement of the site access. New, separate bus loop and car drop-off zones were created, along with additional parking.
One of the highlights of the design is the repurposing of two major spaces. The existing cafeteria was renovated for the school’s library/media center and the existing gymnasium was renovated for the school’s cafeteria and stage. These large high-bay spaces allow for a dramatic new library space and cafeteria and were part of the phasing solution to keep all academic spaces available throughout construction.
