Page 48 - spaces4learning, Fall 2020

spaces4learning BUILDING BLUEPRINTS
Daylighting and Outdoor Space
The building is composed of a centralized two-story Learn- ing Resource Center (library and multi-functional area) with academic and administrative spaces flanking the perimeter. Day- lighting of this central space and transparency to classrooms for both security and lighting purposes are achieved with a finely tuned composition of clerestory and internal windows that vary in scale and orientation. The clerestory consists of electro-chro- matic glass on the east and west facades that tracks the sun throughout the day and self-shades to minimize direct sunlight and heat gain into the space while optimizing ambient light. The north face remains fully transparent, harnessing continuous indirect sunlight. Interior and exterior windows are organized
in a rhythm of vertical and horizontal orientations that provide
a strong visual connection from any point in the building to the surrounding environment and green spaces. This design solution also optimizes daylighting conditions
within the classrooms, reducing energy
loads and improving wellness for users.
Resiliency
The school has been designed to a new code standard requiring the ability to shelter the entire school population
of students, teachers and staff in a location that can with- stand significant catastrophic natural weather events (such as tornadoes or extreme storms). The gymnasium was selected to be that location and is structurally designed as a free-standing storm shelter which can withstand such a potential catastro- phe. The shelter includes its own ventilation, toilets and freshwater to allow the occupants to safely remain in place until assistance can reach them after the weather event has safely passed.
Security
Though the school’s program is open and transparent, security is paramount. The main office projects out from the main build-
The terrace on the second story
features abundant native plantings,
breaking down the mass of the
building and adding visual continuity
to the site’s surrounding trees and
shrubs. This space provides outdoor
learning opportunities for the school’s
science curriculum as well as an area
of respite for faculty to relax during their lunch hours.
Storm Water Management
The design adheres to the county storm water ordinance and will not exacerbate any existing water issues in the area. The building features both an above grade storm water detention basin and below grade storm water detention tanks, which
hold water during heavy rains and slowly release it to the area’s drainage system. The site had no detention measures, and all storm water traveled overland directly into the nearby drainage system. Now, the new design will reduce the rate of storm water entering the system, and should reduce the burden on the area.
"LISLE IS AN ACTIVE, TIGHTLY-KNIT TOWN. THIS IS A BUILDING FOR OUR ENTIRE COMMUNITY."
ing mass to provide administration long sight lines to anyone approach- ing the main entrance. Visitors must traverse several layers of electronic locks and converse with the office staff prior to gaining entry to the building. High- strength laminated intrusion-resistant glass is used to impede anyone from gaining easy access into the school or delay progression through the school once inside. Window shades can be eas-
ily lowered to block sight lines, and various exterior and interior doors can be locked simultaneously during a lockdown. Security cameras are plentiful around the exterior and within the building. All of these features were carefully discussed and reviewed with the district and their security consultant to provide a safe envi- ronment for the school while maintaining the delicate balance of providing an open and inviting experience for the occupants as well as the visiting community.
Mark Jolicoeur, AIA, LEED AP, is a managing principal at Perkins and Will. Rick Young, AIA, LEED AP, is a project manager at Perkins and Will.
42 FALL 2020