Poquoson Middle School Modernization

Background

Poquoson Middle School was originally constructed in 1932. The existing structure was comprised of 11 distinct phases of construction built over 60 years. The latest addition was completed in 1994. Due to the age of the building, it was in dire need of renovation.

Challenge

The modernized school facility was to provide for a total school capacity of 650 students, grades 6–8. The project was to involve both demolition of building areas that were no longer useful and addition of new spaces.

Solution

Woolpert provided planning, programming, architecture, interior design, and engineering services to modernize Poquoson Middle School. The project consisted of approximately 35,044 square feet of additions, approximately 52,761 square feet of major renovation work, and approximately 13,243 square feet of minor renovation work.

Although there were not complete existing drawings on record for the entire building, a decent amount of as-builts existed for reference. The design team looked at as-built drawings and previous investigation reports, and conducted site visits to evaluate the school’s existing conditions, structural systems, and building systems.

The students and teachers were moved to portable classrooms during the renovation, allowing for a smoother process than if the building had remained occupied throughout the project.

The major renovations included full building system upgrades and structural repairs to the existing two-story academic wings and cafeteria. The cafeteria was converted to choral and art classrooms and storage space. Minor renovations consisted of building system improvements to the existing gymnasium and kitchen. Additions to the building included a new two-story wing to connect the existing two classroom wings and to house administration, a media center, and classrooms; a one-story locker room wing; and an auditoria wing that can be used as a cafeteria during the school day and for performances, with a full stage and acoustically-treated seating area. This second addition creates a large internal courtyard for events and outdoor dining.

The design includes science labs, a technology education lab, and a makerspace off of the media center. The makerspace is for hands-on projects and has flexible design, moveable wooden work tables, sinks, electrical reels in the ceiling, and a Lego wall.

Outcome

Woolpert worked with the school system to develop a building program that addressed all of their needs and provided concept plans to stay within their budget. Upon approval of the plans, Woolpert provided construction documents and construction management.

Collaboration between owner, architect, and contractor allowed for streamlined construction techniques. The project was constructed three months ahead of the original construction schedule, which allowed the school system to move the students and teachers back into the renovated building in September instead of January. The renovated facility provides 21st Century learning spaces and updated amenities for 650 students in grades 6–8. The total gross square footage of the new facility is 101,048 square feet.

Benefits

Poquoson Middle School gained an updated facility with modern amenities and spaces to facilitate learning for students. The additions fit well with the historical portions of the building and maintained the integrity of the original building while modernizing it to 21st Century standards.

The owner has complimented Woolpert’s design for the renovated space for the new flow and circulation improvements, noting that the building now feels more open and connected. Improving the previously incohesive structure, Woolpert designed the additions so that it is not obvious which parts are new and which are older and renovated.