Delta Kelly Elementary School

Oakland Township, Michigan

Firm

French Associates

Client

Rochester Community Schools

Area

83,500 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$11,500,000

Completion Date

08/2002

The design process included a series of workshops with building stakeholders. The solution was based on educational specifications developed by the design team that described the spaces and needs to be situated within the facility. Some educational goals included spaces for pre-K programs, school-aged care and specialty programs like science/discovery.
This 20-acre site is situated in Oakland Township, Mich., a rural community filled with examples of farmland vernacular with masonry foundations and clapboard exteriors. In an effort to respect the charm of these elements, the design of the school incorporated many masonry details and components into its exteriors.
Large overhangs with pairs of architectural columns simulate covered farmhouse porches. The cupola is an important design element, further emphasizing the nostalgic bell cupolas of historic school buildings.
The design features two classroom wings, separated by commons areas and administrative offices. Traffic within the school can flow easily to and from the media center, cafetorium, and art and science classrooms through brightly colored, vaulted corridors.