CHARTER SCHOOL DEVELOPMENT

An uncommon proposal for speculative use, the property owner is developing the existing brownfield site as a charter school in traditionally underserved East New York, Brooklyn. The adaptable design can house 650-700 students, depending on the needs of the school. The building is five floors plus cellar, with fifth floor gymnasium anticipating a variance; however, the gym can be replaced with a rooftop play area to maintain the physical activity space urban schools struggle to provide. With no specific school program, the design consolidates non-program spaces to the center, leaving the perimeter of the corner lot building available for light-filled instruction. An iconic and civic-minded structure for the neighborhood, the transparent base engages the local community and creates the subtle suggestion of the building lifting itself off the ground toward a higher level. The school’s rational organization and simple material palette balance design intent with affordability and constructability.

Rendering by Vlad Vernica @vladvernica.renderings