B_0810_ATM_ElementaryAward

Elementary School Wins Model School Award

Aug. 20, 2010
East Fairhaven Elementary highlighted for efficient and adaptable layout.

The East Fairhaven Elementary School, Fairhaven, MA, was named one of the four model elementary schools by the Massachusetts School Board Authority (MSBA). Cited for its efficient floor plan, as well as its adaptable and flexible use of space, the 74,630-square-foot school serves 475 students in pre-K through fifth grade. The school has a straightforward plan that simplifies navigation for its young users, and bright colors and strong patterning reinforce the child-centric environment.

MSBA’s Model School Program showcases schools that are efficient in design, incorporate sustainable elements, demonstrate flexible educational programming approaches, and encourage community use. The program’s goal is to capitalize proven solutions and perpetuate design and construction best practices. According to the MSBA, adapting these proven school designs will compress the design/bid schedule, reduce construction changes orders, and limit the impact of cost inflation.

The school achieves efficiencies through a simple layout and creative multi-use of space. The gymnasium doubles as a school-wide performance/assembly space, where an acoustic partition can also isolate the stage for use as the music classroom during the day. The energy-efficient building is also oriented to take advantage of daylighting, with skylights and classroom windows bringing natural light deep into interior spaces.

Completed in 2007 at a construction cost of $12,986,014, materials were selected for their long life span, abuse resistance, and ability to minimize the building's overall environmental footprint. “Using quality materials and creative space planning, the project is a testament to the idea that good design doesn't have to come at a cost premium," says Laura Wernick, principal at HMFH Architects.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Buildings, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Building Better Schools

Download this digital resource to better understand the challenges and opportunities in designing and operating educational facilities for safety, sustainability, and performance...

Tips to Keep Facility Management on Track

How do you plan to fill the knowledge gap as seasoned facility managers retire or leave for new opportunities? Learn about the latest strategies including FM tech innovations ...

The Beauty & Benefits of Biophilic Design in the Built Environment

Biophilic design is a hot trend in design, but what is it and how can building professionals incorporate these strategies for the benefits of occupants? This eHandbook offers ...

The Benefits of Migrating from Analog to DMR Two-Way Radios

Are you still using analog two-way radios? Download this white paper and discover the simple and cost-effective migration path to digital DMR radios that deliver improved audio...