SCIENCE & RESEARCH WING

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Kennedy & Violich Architecture developed a multi-phased Master Plan for Beaver Country Day School in 2010 and completed the first phase in 2011, a 10,000sf interdisciplinary Science Wing. The Master Plan, subtitled the “Ring of Knowledge”, will eventually provide full accessibility to the schools 50,000sf multi-building complex that includes structures built over time on a sloped site. Further, the school’s mission to provide Middle and High School education that prepares students for 21st Century higher-ed learning required a public image that reflected independent research, collaborative project-based curricula, highly flexible teaching and social spaces, and a pro-active response to issues of climate change.

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The Science Wing increased the number of science labs by 150% and added to its flexibility and efficiency without adding square footage to the existing 1960’s pour concrete structure. Each of the wing’s six labs have lab tables that are on wheels supported by multiple floor boxes with power, audio visual, and IT, as well as, flexible exhaust ducts, allowing multiple class configurations. A central circulation spine is designed as a gallery for exhibited projects and connects two collaborative spaces for informal study. A new two-story greenhouse addition powered independently by a solar PV array, connects additional classrooms on the lower-level and becomes a hands-on work space for students interested in natural resources and energy conservation. The greenhouse is designed to be a luminous feature within the existing courtyard. Natural daylighting through new solar shaded curtain walls and skylights reduce energy loads and provide a comfortable environment for learning

Date: 2011
Status: Completed
Client: Beaver School
Location: Chestnut Hill, MA
Design Team:
Frano Violich, FAIA; Managing Principal
Sheila Kennedy, FAIA; Principal Consulting on Design
Patricia Gruits LEED AP, Seth Hoffman, Sloan Kulper IDSA, Charles Garcia LEED AP
Architect: Kennedy & Violich Architecture, Ltd
AV/Acoustic Consultant: Cavanaugh Tocci Associates, Inc
Code: Remmer Consulting Engineers
Landscape Architect: Richard Burck Associates
Lighting Consultant: Light This!
MEPFP Engineer: AHA Consulting Engineers, Inc
Structural Engineer: Richmond So Engineers, Inc
Sustainability Consultant: The Green Engineer, LLP
Photographer: John Horner