The Allegany-Limestone Central School District partnered with CPL to transform its aging elementary school into a vibrant, inclusive learning environment that reflects the District’s identity while supporting the diverse ways young students learn, explore and engage.
Client
Allegany-Limestone Central School District
Location
Allegany, New York
Services
Architecture, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Plumbing Engineering
Completed
2021
Total Project Cost
$6.1 M
Project Type
Classrooms & STEAM Learning
Key Contact
Jason Benfante
Building on improvements previously completed at the District’s high school, the project creates a more cohesive educational experience while giving the elementary school a distinct, age-appropriate character of its own.
Working closely with District stakeholders, CPL developed a design vision centered on curiosity, creativity, belonging and school pride. Beginning at the main entrance and lobby and extending throughout the building, bold graphics, energetic colors and integrated wayfinding establish a welcoming sense of arrival and reinforce the school’s Gator identity.
Visual cues incorporated into corridors, floors and key program areas also help students intuitively navigate the building while bringing moments of discovery and play into the everyday school experience.
Learning environments were reimagined to provide students with greater opportunities for exploration and hands-on engagement. The existing library was transformed into a contemporary media center with a prominent entrance designed to draw students in.
Additionally, an underutilized classroom became a dedicated Maker Space supporting creativity, experimentation and collaborative learning. Enhancements to the sensory room—including new interactive elements and an I-Spy window—provide additional opportunities to support students with varying sensory and learning needs.
Improvements extend throughout the school and campus, including a rock-climbing wall in the gymnasium, an outdoor courtyard with limestone seating and a tree-inspired shade canopy, new LED lighting, and upgrades to building systems.
Together, these enhancements give new life to the existing school while creating a more engaging, adaptable and inclusive environment designed to support learning, discovery and connection for every student.
