Philadelphia Elementary School Completes $22M Renovation Project

Edwin Forrest Elementary School in Philadelphia, Pa., recently celebrated the completion of a $22-million renovation project, according to a news release. The School District of Philadelphia partnered with DIGroup Architecture (DIG) for the project’s design. Work on the almost century-old campus included significant interior renovations, repairs to the exterior building envelope, and restoration.

“DIG has been serving the school market since our inception, and our team is keenly aware of how renovated spaces can be—and are—a complete game changer for student success,” said DIG President Vince Myers. “Throughout our history, we have been extremely active across New Jersey and New York City and are pleased to expand our regional expertise to now include Philadelphia.”

The news release reports that renovation work included new finishes and program spaces throughout the building. Additions include a new commercial kitchen; new HVAC systems; refreshed ADA-compliant bathrooms; and new voltage and lighting systems compatible with district-wide technology. New specialty classrooms include space for art, science, small-group instruction, an updated computer lab, and a Maker Space.

“Schools are community spaces where teachers and administrators partner with parents to shape the minds, hearts and character of their young people. Students and staff deserve physical spaces that are safe, functional and provide an uplifting environment where learning can take place,” said DIG senior project manager LoriAnne Jones. “It is an honor to work with end-user groups, and School District of Philadelphia leadership, to conceptualize and deliver projects like Edwin Forrest Elementary School, which meet modern needs while maintaining and celebrating the historical integrity of an older structure.”

About the Author

Matt Jones is senior editor of Spaces4Learning. He can be reached at [email protected].

Featured

  • Construction Begins on 100+ Acre K–12 Campus Designed for Lakota Culture

    The Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe (CRST) and the Cheyenne-Eagle Butte School District in Eagle Butte, S.D., recently broke ground on a new K–12 campus that will cover more than 100 acres and serve students and families across 1,600 square miles, according to a news release.

  • University of Washington Opens New Broadcast Studio

    The University of Washington in Seattle, Wash., recently announced the opening of Sundodger Studios, a new broadcast, production, and content facility, according to a news release. The university partnered with Anthony James Partners for the design and development of the studio, which will host about 100 live broadcasts and 120 live videoboard shows per year.

  • Haws Corporation Marks 120th Anniversary

    Haws Corporation, which provides hydration and emergency safety solutions worldwide, recently announced that the company is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year, according to a news release.

  • Sam Houston State University Completes Athletic Stadium Renovations

    Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas, recently announced the reopening of Elliott T. Bowers Stadium after an extensive renovation project, according to a news release. The university partnered with Stantec and DLR Group for the project’s design.