The Fessenden School, Science Center
Newton, Massachusetts
Design Team
Paul Viccica, Lauren Gauthier, Lonnie Ash, Meagan Kelley, Daniel Guzas, Michelle Oishi, Howe Engineers, Langan Engineering, Rist-Frost-Shumway Engineering, Boston Light Source
The reimagined science wing at the Fessenden School in Newton, Mass., transforms once enclosed corridors into an open and welcoming environment. Learning flows out of the traditional classroom into hallways and breakout spaces focused around a new collaborative core.
Designed over two floors, the science wing features scientific discovery and hands-on learning at every turn, engaging children of all ages—from kindergarten through grade nine—with vibrant graphics, improved technology, interactive displays, and ample demonstration and collaborative space.
The design strategically repurposes existing support and utility space and reconfigures existing labs and classrooms to introduce a series of visually connected and adaptable spaces that allow for flexible learning, a rotating curriculum, and new opportunities for scientific exploration embedded within the architectural and interior design itself. Unique and engaging features such as a living green wall, functioning prism wall, live nature-cam displays, and teaching topics integrated into floor-finish patterns foster a sense of intellectual curiosity and invite students to explore and play beyond standard curricula.
Additional Information
Capacity
230
Featured in
2022 Architectural Portfolio
Interior category
Technology/STEM Centers
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