The George School in Newtown, Pennsylvania will begin construction this spring on a new 100,000 sf athletic center, the school’s second major project with Bowie Gridley Architects after the LEED Gold Certified Mollie Dodd Anderson Library was completed in fall 2009. The new center is set to open in fall 2014.
The facility will feature an 8-lane, 25-yard pool, a performance gym with double basketball court, a practice gym and fitness center, and locker rooms and other support facilities. Many environmentally sound design components will go into the facility, which is designed to achieve LEED certification. The center will include a vegetative roof for improved storm water management, water and air purification, and a reduction in energy consumption; as well as native plant gardens, rain gardens in the enlarged parking lot, and windows that maximize day-lighting to reduce electrical use. Additionally, solar hot water collectors will pre-heat water for boilers, radiant flooring will provide energy-efficient heating, and the new pool will use an air dehumidification system to heat the pool and to lower the use of chemicals needed to treat the water.
“This new project is another step towards our goal of a leadership position in environmental sustainability,” says Head of School Nancy Starmer. “I’m very excited about what this building project will mean for the well-being of our students, teachers, and coaches” she adds.
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Founded in 1981, Bowie Gridley Architects specializes in work for institutions of community significance – academic and student life facilities, performing arts centers, libraries, athletic and recreational facilities, museums and cultural centers. The architecture, planning and interior design firm is based in Washington, D.C. and works with clients throughout the U.S. and abroad.
