Project Spotlight:
Uncommon Schools – Rochester Prep High School
Rendering of what the new construction + renovation will look like
Despite popular misconceptions, Charter Schools are public schools, operated with public funds. The key word is “operated,” because Charter Schools are funded on a per-pupil basis, but the burden of raising the money for capital projects is the responsibility of the Charter Operator. Charter Schools often seek out more affordable buildings, in which to house their modern, nimble (and often) technology-focused educational institutions.
These factors came into play when Uncommon Schools chose the property at 14 Mark Street in Rochester, NY as the location for their new Rochester Prep High School. Uncommon Schools has served Rochester families for more than fifteen years, with an instructional model that supports students’ academic and personal growth. Uncommon teachers thrive in an active engaged learning environment, preparing every student to succeed in college and beyond. None of this is possible without the right physical environment, making the choice of both property, and architect to improve it, critically important.
Edge Architecture is excited to have been chosen to design this new school, both within the context of a vintage space, plus the addition of a substantial, complementary new construction.
Preserve the Old, Build the New
When an older building is chosen for a new purpose, there are going to be challenges. 14 Mark Street was originally built as a church, and was later converted for use as a school, so the building’s structural systems are still in place, and differ dramatically from modern requirements. Before any functional changes could be be addressed, reinforcement of the existing structure must be addressed.
A rendering of the open hallway and stairs in the new construction part of the school
Furthermore, to meet the needs of the school, new construction was going to be necessary. Combining the new with the old to create a cohesive, single school is always a challenge, one that Edge Architecture enjoys rising to. Other challenges included:
A part of the existing structure was pre-cast concrete, limiting changes that can be made for improved window and door placement
Some of the space to be developed is below grade, with windows high on the walls, creating a less-than-ideal learning environment
The existing layout was maze-like, common for churches, but undesirable in schools
A 3rd floor classroom wing poses some structural challenges
Creative program spaces such as library, arts, music, and common areas will require creative, clever approaches to be successful
Opening sight lines with a new hallway being built in the original building
Rising to the Challenges
Edge takes a holistic based approach to problem solving, solutions and planning, working to provide solutions that address a complex set of interdependent variables reaping all-encompassing benefits, rather than addressing a list of individual problems. Every individual solution is a part of the whole, resulting in a well thought out, clean sheet design.
A Path Forward
After presenting the client with options to suit their needs, the result is a project that is a combination of new construction and renovation.
Overall our approach to the project will revolve around:
Work continues on the steel structure through the winter
A view from inside the new addition
New structural columns in the old cafeteria providing support for better design on the upper floors
Global organization of circulation flows to assure efficient movement, sight lines, and security, with a minimum of disruption. This includes the creation of a main circulation hallway.
Several multi-purpose, flexible spaces for current use, and future program compatibility
The existing elevator in the middle of the building will be removed to achieve better flow and sight lines
Creation of an ADA compliant entry, with improved access to elevators
A new elevator will be constructed at the entry, providing multi-level, ADA compliant access
The stage will be relocated to the east wall resulting in a circulation spine behind the cafeteria to limit student disturbance
The old gymnasium space will house the new science classrooms and labs
School offices will be centrally located at entry
An open ornamental staircase will create an interactive, and collaborative feature
Distinct building zones organize the school into
Classrooms
Administration & Support Spaces
Multi-purpose Gym and Cafeteria Areas