A comprehensive 16,000-sf renovation resolved building circulation, refreshed the building exterior, and provided updated dining and gathering spaces.

The Class of 1920 Commons was constructed as an addition in the 1960s. Circulation between the building’s main (sidewalk) level, and basement dining area was awkward and the primary circulating stair did not address both portions and all levels of the building. The renovation project corrected circulation issues and provided healthy food stations, a gourmet grocer, and a Starbucks cafe. Keast & Hood provided structural engineering for reconstruction of the central stair and elevator core to provide ADA access on both levels. Design was also provided for the foundations and column supports of a new exterior wood trellis, and for new operable partition walls in the dining area. Repair details and cleaning methodology were developed for the building exterior, and structural design was provided for a new entry canopy. The project was constructed in three months to accommodate students’ summer break.

American School and University magazine recognized the project with a 2013 Outstanding Award for Educational Interiors.

A comprehensive 16,000-sf renovation resolved building circulation, refreshed the building exterior, and provided updated dining and gathering spaces.

The Class of 1920 Commons was constructed as an addition in the 1960s. Circulation between the building’s main (sidewalk) level, and basement dining area was awkward and the primary circulating stair did not address both portions and all levels of the building. The renovation project corrected circulation issues and provided healthy food stations, a gourmet grocer, and a Starbucks cafe. Keast & Hood provided structural engineering for reconstruction of the central stair and elevator core to provide ADA access on both levels. Design was also provided for the foundations and column supports of a new exterior wood trellis, and for new operable partition walls in the dining area. Repair details and cleaning methodology were developed for the building exterior, and structural design was provided for a new entry canopy. The project was constructed in three months to accommodate students’ summer break.

American School and University magazine recognized the project with a 2013 Outstanding Award for Educational Interiors.

CLIENT: Buell Kratzer Powell
LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA

TYPE: Academic, SERVICES: Renovation, MATERIALS: Steel, SUSTAINABILITY: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Completed project photography © Jeffrey Totaro, before photos courtesy Buell Kratzer Powell