Interiors Studio designers, Dorothy Schalk and Bianca Dyke share how two building modernizations at local K-12 schools provided the opportunity to re-imagine new library and media spaces utilizing their existing Facilities Budgets, rather than waiting to pass a Bond. The architect on this project was Pratt, who are based in Modesto, CA took care of the shell, ceilings and exterior work and Lionakis was teamed with them to provide the Furniture, Fixtures, Equipment and Interior Design for the projects.
Located in the Northern California countryside, Oakdale Joint Unified School District worked with Lionakis on designing a new library and computer lab for two K-6 schools – Cloverland and Fair Oaks Elementary Schools. Each existing space originally functioned as a multipurpose room, now decommissioned.
“Our goal, going into each of these spaces, was to create a library of the 21st century. This means integrating technology, providing soft break-out seating, collaborative spaces, and designing for the evolving needs of each school.”
Not only did these schools need to provide a space to sit and read, but they also need to function as a robotics laboratory. In Cloverland’s library, we provided large work tables on casters, so that students may do concentrated work at the table, and roll the table away when floor space is needed. In Fair Oaks, the robotics lab is built into the computer lab, integrating computer use with the robotics class.
These spaces also need to function for children of multiple age groups. We have designed in each school a plush amphitheater, so students may gather for story time, or break out and have independent reading or study activities. All furniture is tailored for the height range of children in elementary school, providing an ergonomic approach to the design of each space. By providing a bright, imaginative space that meets the needs of different activities and learning styles, we have ensured this space will be able to function for years to come.
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