In January 2021, A49 was awarded the mandate for the schematic design of a new “adaptable” school design for the CEPEO- French public school board of Eastern Ontario, along with the design and delivery of two new schools to be constructed in two locations, one in Kanata-Stittsville and another in Barrhaven Sud.
The pilot project for the “adaptable” school was to create a design that could be modified to accommodate 375, 475, or 675 pupil places depending on an area’s needs and flexible enough to be oriented to a variety of sites. Programming for the 2 new K-6 schools includes a separately operated daycare centre and two stories of classroom spaces. A centrally located gymnasium, multi-purpose room, and library are intended for student use and also community access during off-school hours.
The site design for both schools integrates outdoor teaching areas, playful natural elements, and the incorporation of an arboretum with a variety of plantings that encourage learning about biodiversity. Exterior cladding of modulated brick patterns is subtly playful with a wraparound front entrance intended to embrace the corner lots and welcome the community into its central programs. The metal panel inserts clad the gymnasium, animating the playground it faces, and offering an opportunity for changes to the colour palette that offers another means to define each unique site.
Education | Ontario Seaway Corridor