The Forge

Florham Park, New Jersey

Firm

LAN Associates

Client

Florham Park School District

Area

3,375 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$1,000,000

Completion Date

06/2022

Keith Williams

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“The Forge” is a cohesive center for the maker movement and robotics studies at Ridgedale Middle School in Florham Park, N.J. It reuses outdated programmatic space for new STEAM methodologies. The design process kicked off with visioning sessions held to draw inspiration from stakeholder and student input. These were integral in transforming the former equipment drop-off into a sought-after production studio and robotics lab.

Entry to The Forge welcomes students with a new colorful graphic-infused corridor lined by glass walls that provide a peek into the learning zones. The new classrooms offer a vibrant center for modern learning that sparks creativity. Occupants are drawn to teaching walls and other learning areas dispersed throughout, which are highlighted by circuit board lighting. Movable wood slab tables offer additional flexibility by providing a place for group prototyping and the ability to break off into personalized solo designs. The design suite is equipped with personal whiteboards, green screens, camera equipment, and advanced prototyping machinery to provide opportunities for envisioning, producing, and marketing ideas.