Location
Parry Sound, ON
Client
Near North District School Board
Year
2015
Size
51,569 sq ft
Mitchell Jensen Architects was engaged by the Near North District School Board to assist in acquiring a site for this new JK-6 school, to consolidate and replace two existing elementary schools in Parry Sound. After a lengthy search, negotiations and successfully addressing environmental issues related to previous uses of the site, the site was purchased.
Mitchell Jensen Architects undertook consultation with staff, students and parent councils in developing the design of this 21 classroom school (incl. 3 kindergartens). Site development was critical and we planned off-street bus loading for 12 buses, completely separate from parent pick-up and parking. We achieved a design which safely separates these functions for maximum safety. Abundant playground areas are provided including a separate, fenced kindergarten playground, as well as a baseball diamond and soccer-sized open field.
The desire was for a robust, easily maintained school and load-bearing masonry/masonry veneer construction was selected. The design endeavored to maximize economy through a lean, rational floor plan which regularized structure. Although it was constructed for an economical price it includes such features as exposed Douglas Fir glue-laminated roof structure in the gymnasium, lobby and the library.
Mitchell’s group takes every opportunity to understand a project’s objectives and constraints. Paul and his team are consistently aware of the pressures when dealing with school communities, and the public involvement it generates with regards to our provincially funded projects. They handle all interactions with various individuals and groups, in the most professional manner.
