Durham Academy Lower School
Durham, N.C.
KieranTimberlake Associates

A comprehensive master plan drives a school's sweeping expansion

© Barry Halkin

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This independent, coeducational college preparatory day school currently serves over 1,000 students in pre-K-12. In 1998, the school commissioned the architects to prepare a master plan. This plan translated the school’s vision into its buildings and grounds with changes in the physical design driven by programmatic priorities consistent with the plan’s strategy.

New facilities include the preschool and lower school complex on previously undeveloped land; expansion of the middle school into existing, renovated and new construction, and modifications to the upper school facilities to enhance community spaces and programs such as fine arts, athletics and technology, alleviation of crowded assembly spaces, and accommodation of enrollment growth and parking. Furthermore, the plan consolidated school-wide administration offices and increased maintenance facilities to continue stewardship of the existing and expanded physical plant.

This 80,000 square-foot facility includes new general purpose classrooms; specialty classrooms for science, art, music and computers; a library; gymnasium; a multipurpose room; as well as two large meeting areas for and extensive outdoor play areas.

Formal name of Project:
Durham Academy Lower School

Location:
Durham, N.C.

Gross square footage:
81,000 sq. ft.

Total construction cost:
$10.3 million

Owner:
National Association of Independent Schools

Architect:
KieranTimberlake Associates LLP
420 North 20th
Philadelphia, PA 19130
215-922-6600
F 215-922-4680
www.kierantimberlake.com