Elementary Facilities Design Team Shares Progress, Next Steps
Beachwood's vision for new elementary schools is taking shape! During Monday's board meeting, the Beachwood Board of Education received a progress update on the design and construction of the new Bryden School and Hilltop Elementary. Senior project consultant Douglas Myers of Project Management Consultants and project architect Ryan Schmit of ThenDesign Architecture unveiled renderings of the new buildings and outlined the upcoming construction schedule. Here are the key takeaways:
Moving Forward with Design
The project is progressing smoothly. The schematic design phase is complete, and the design development phase is underway. Construction documents are anticipated to be finalized by July 2024, paving the way for construction to begin later this summer.
Beautiful and Functional Designs
The new schools are designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and practical. Key design features include:
- Modern Appeal with Classic Durability: The buildings will showcase a blend of modern and classic materials, including masonry fronts accented with wood-toned metal panels.
- Light-Filled Learning Environments: Large, circular light fixtures will create a skylight effect, complemented by expansive windows that establish a strong connection to the outdoors while prioritizing student safety.
- Collaborative Learning: Each school will incorporate dedicated areas to promote learning and interaction beyond the traditional classroom setting. These spaces will cater to small-group activities and provide quiet areas for reading and discussions.
- Community Spaces: Large spaces within the buildings, including the libraries, cafeterias, and gymnasiums, will serve educational purposes and double as community gathering spaces. They are located near the front entrances for convenient access during public meetings and events.
- Outdoor Facilities and Grounds: Both schools will boast expansive green spaces with shade structures, seating, walking paths, engaging playgrounds, and basketball courts. Public restrooms near the playgrounds will serve students during the day and the community until dusk.
Safety and Community in Mind
The project prioritizes both safety and minimal disruption to school operations during construction. Traffic for construction and school purposes will be managed separately, and the buildings themselves will incorporate extensive safety features.
Feedback from teachers, staff, and the community has been instrumental in shaping the final designs. From furniture selection to classroom layouts, the design team has strived to align the plans with the needs and preferences of the school community.
Timeline and Next Steps
Construction is scheduled to begin this summer. The new schools are anticipated to open their doors in January 2026.
CONSTRUCTION TIMELINE | |
---|---|
May - August 2024 | Extensive site work, including installation of fencing, construction roads, grading, and utilities. |
August 2024 - December 2025 | Construction of the new schools. |
January 2026 | Students move into new school buildings. |
January 2026 - August 2026 | Demolition and removal of original buildings, accompanied by the construction of permanent drives, parking lots, blacktops, playgrounds, and fields. |
August 2026 | Completion of permanent drives, parking lots, blacktops, and playgrounds. (Note: Fields require two growing seasons before opening in Spring 2027.) |
To learn more, please explore the presentation slides and stay tuned for a recording of the presentation.