When the Hot Springs School District needed to alleviate overcrowding in its existing facilities, they decided to build a new, larger intermediate school, designed to provide a state-of-the-art facility that not only serves to foster greater educational opportunities, but also operates as a place to unite the community.
Sustainability was a key factor in creating the new Hot Springs Intermediate School in Hot Springs, Ark. It was important that the school incorporate solutions that help provide a healthy, productive learning environment. The building also incorporated a geo-thermal heating system and insulated building envelope. Extra insulation into the roof was added to exceed the energy code, and entrance vestibules featured sloped glazing to allow for increased natural light to enter the building.
The site selected for the school was adjacent to the old building, and fairly small in size, requiring the architects to go from a one-story design to a two-story plan. A greenhouse, which was incorporated into the school as a part of its science curriculum, features a skylight that provides a smooth appearance and helps minimize heat loss and condensation. The combination of the building’s green features and modern teaching facilities, which include a separate physical education building and auditorium for community events, as well as an elaborate arts wing, helped make a state-of-the-art school.
Kawneer Co. Inc., Norcross, Ga., supplied a variety of products to help increase the durability, sustainability and energy efficiency of the school. A combination of Kawneer’s 1600 SunShades and custom sunshades were used. Kawneer’s 190 Narrow Stile Entrance door rail materials allowed the outside perimeter of the vertical sunshades to be built and then glazed on the inside with perforated panels, which were incorporated into the 1600 SunShades, creating a unique solution.
The new school, now occupied by approximately 700 students in grades five and six, is spacious and features an open floor plan with natural light throughout.
Kawneer’s Trifab VG 451T Storefront Framing and 350 Medium Stile Entrances were also used in the project. Paneline Exit Devices on the 350 Medium Stile Entrances provided heightened security for the school. Additionally, Kawneer’s 1600 Wall System 1 curtainwall and 2000 Skylight were also utilized.
Douglas A. Arnold and Associates PLC, Hot Springs, was the architect, and Valley Aluminum Products, Hot Springs, fabricated and glazed the building.
Kawneer Co. Inc., www.kawneer.com
