The School at Springbrook Cafeteria Addition and Classroom Renovation

The School at Springbrook has been offering educational services to children and adults with developmental disabilities since 1966. The existing educational campus had a school, residential group homes, various administrative support buildings. and beautiful acreage open for development.

SWBR renovated the existing school, bringing it up to code and adding mechanical systems for enhanced energy efficiency and thermal control. Additions were built housing a cafeteria, gymnasium, and specialized classrooms. Each new space was designed specifically considering the needs of children with multiple disabilities. Lighting, acoustics, finishes, and detailing were designed to create a hazard free environment, reducing sensory stimulation and distraction. Three, eight-bedroom student residences were built, leaving the dormitory or institutional model behind. Each residence consists of two, four-bedroom homes with their own front porch, patio, entry, living room, dining room and den. The two homes share a kitchen, laundry and staff offices.

The completed project has redefined the meaning of success for Springbrook, allowing them to better serve these special kids in a more nurturing, supportive, and safe environment. “It’s all accessible. It’s safe, it’s open, it’s beautiful,” said Springbrook CEO, Patricia Kennedy.