Building a classroom modernization during COVID was a challenge, but with a great client and contractor, Burlingame Intermediate School got a much-needed modernization, its first major renovation since it was originally constructed in 1953.
Design of the project was complete before the pandemic, through a planning process including students and community members. The project had a simple program – modernize twenty classrooms and solve accessibility along a steep hillside connecting five classroom buildings. We embraced the accessibility challenge as a form-generator to dramatically change the exterior environment and provide new outdoor learning spaces. To improve wayfinding, we developed a concept of the campus as a point within the local environment, fostering environmental awareness in students and the school community. Each building displays part of an educational exhibit with immersive graphics depicting ecozones along a transect from the ocean to the San Francisco Bay.
Kudos to our construction partner, Alten Construction, who completed the work on time and on budget despite supply chain delays and work restrictions. And thank you to our client, Burlingame School District, for believing in our vision of transforming old buildings into new, engaging classrooms!
If you missed our presentation at the AIASF Committee on Architecture for Education, here is a recording of it. Enjoy!
