AIAS, Kawneer select 'School of Tomorrow' winner

Officials at the American Institute of Architecture Students, Washington, D.C.,and Kawneer Co., Norcross, Ga., announced the winners of the “Schools of Tomorrow” student design competition, according to a Feb. 23 release. The Kawneer-sponsored competition, now in its fifth year, challenged students to learn about building materials, specifically architectural aluminum building products and systems in the design of a modern and creative school for students ranging from kindergarten to sixth grade. Ball State University’s Susan Butts won first place and $2,500 for “Propel Elementary School.”The competition received more than 200 entries from nearly 300 students of architecture across 16 countries worldwide. While open to any student, the competition is designed for advanced students. Participants were required to research, highlight and respond to the unique aspects of designing an attractive and modern elementary school that will serve the needs of its community for years to come. Competition objectives also include developing an understanding of materials and techniques that can help earn Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification points while creating a bright and fun atmosphere for learning.A jury comprising architectural experts with experience in designing educational facilities evaluated the submissions. They judged on ingenuity and originality, as well as appropriate use of sustainable products and design clarity. Jurors included: Russell A. Davidson, AIA; James Determan, AIA; and Scott E. Powell, AIA, LEED AP. In discussing the selection criteria, Determan noted, “The winning designs have successfully incorporated Kawneer’s products using sustainable strategy such as daylighting to make innovative learning environments, creating inspiring spaces and using the building a teaching tool.” Prizes were awarded as follows:Susan Butts - Ball State University, “Propel Elementary School”First place ($2,500) With Seattle as its setting, Butts’ school was designed as an extension of Seattle’s Lake Union Park to influence holistic learning experiences to its community and students. It was inspired by the city’s vibrant history, natural spirit and progressive goals.Nate Boykin - Clemson University, “FORMative Interaction”Second place ($1,500)In his design, Boykin wanted “to transform [the school] experience from a child's perspective and at the same time offer teachers versatility with their spaces. If teachers only have one way to teach- only one type of student can learn. A variety of spaces mean a variety of interactions that can meet every type of student need.” Tang Heng Quanh and Mario Christian Lavorato – University of Toronto, “The Hive: Alternative Learning Center”Third place ($750)Quanh and Lavorato stated that they felt “schools were too stratified and tended to stifle social interaction between students of differing grades or classes, specifically between youngest and eldest.” Their design was intended to give students a sense of belonging and reduce the anxiety associated with age, grade or class divide.The jury awarded honorable mentions ($500) to Jansel Irarragorry (University of Central Florida, “Unparalled”), Gregor Schuller (Technische Universit?t Cottbus, “Montessori-Primary School Schwarzheide”) and Chris Simmons and Melissa Klemeyer (Ball State University, “A Living School”). Click hereto view winning entries; they will be published in the Spring 2011 issue of Crit: Journal of the AIAS. In addition, they will be displayed at the AIAS FORUM 2011 in Phoenix, from Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 1, 2012.