The project: The new building combines two former Walpole Public School middle schools into one three-story facility for 1,000 sixth- through eighth-grade students.

Design highlights: The landscape architecture design included extensive rain gardens and bioretention areas throughout the site to reduce the need for large, expensive subsurface retention. The design also included the preservation and protection of a large forested area to the east of the site. An accessible nature walk was designed to serve as a primary walking path to the new school, and permeable pavers and a central plaza area connects the building to the existing sports field. The design also included an overlook, which capitalized on the increased elevation on the site.

Challenge: The new school was constructed on the grounds of one of the existing middle schools, resulting in a tight construction site. Solution: The team coordinated site plans and logistics to ensure no significant disruption to the existing school’s operations and athletic events.

The outcome: The new school provides student-centric spaces that promote learning and a safe and welcoming environment.