New stair tower at rear draws inspiration from the form and function of the existing historic brick school building.
Powell Elementary School was awarded a Gold medal in the 2021 Brick in Architecture Awards. Hosted by the Brick Industry Association, the awards are the only national association to represent both manufacturers and distributors. Two different brick types were chosen to integrate the new with the old for this 90,000 sf addition/renovation. Brick details around the main entry inspired the design team to create the open-air stairwell made of brick.
Precedent: Lattice brick used on historic 1929 building, provides security and privacy at bathrooms
Solidity: Tower is along a public alley frequented by cars and trucks
Security: tower is away from the eyes of teachers, brick is secure; screening from
The design team aimed to create a modern design that integrated seamlessly with the existing, 1959 addition but inspired by the terracotta-colored brick of the original 1929 building.
Light: Lattice provides some openness for daylight
Pattern: a better look for the neighborhood than a 3-story blank wall; enliven a utilitarian façade
Fresh air is important for successful learning, so the open-air brick stair provides that air in between classes. Daylighting allows us to cut back on the energy cost of lighting an exterior stair. And the product is in harmony with the previous 1929 and 1959 wings, drawing inspiration from both.
For more see the BIA website here: 2021 Award Winners - K-12 Education (gobrick.com)
