Friends Select School
Philadelphia, PA
Phased Renovations Enliven Urban School
Founded in 1689, Friends Select School is an independent, college preparatory school for grades Pre-K–12. The School’s Quaker values of community, stewardship and simplicity form the basis for its educational programs. We have worked Friends Select on renovations and improvements throughout their 134,000 sf building in Center City.
The School occupies a 2-story 1967 structure with views of Philadelphia City Hall from its rooftop playing fields. We began our work with a master plan that established a framework for improving building circulation and program spaces for performing arts, Pre-K, and athletics. The master plan identified several renovation projects and established a schedule for their phased implementation. Several projects have already been completed: the addition of a spacious, open stair in a prominent central location connects the School’s upper levels with the Lower Level athletic facilities. Athletic facilities were enhanced by renovating existing locker and training facilities and creating a new Fitness Center that overlooks the School’s indoor swimming pool. Pre-K and K classrooms were renovated to accommodate new play lofts, cubbie spaces, and reading areas. The Blauvelt Theater was completely renovated with new seating, lighting and audio-visual systems. The creation of a new Performing Arts Workshop, and the additional Lower Level athletic program renovations are planned for the future.
Project Team:
Structural Engineer: Keast & Hood Engineers; MEP Engineer: Bruce E. Brooks & Associates; Acoustics/AV: Metropolitan Acoustics; Cost Estimating: International Consulting Inc.; Construction Manager: Wolfe Scott; Owners Representitive: Becker & Frondorf; Photographer: Don Pearse Photographers
A new, open stair, connects to the lower level athletic facilities