Category: News
SCHRADERGROUP Welcomes Our Summer Interns!
SCHRADERGROUP warmly welcomes our annual summer interns! This year’s interns are Alissa Kinney, Shubh Savani, and Isaac Buxton. The interns will shadow our team members and assist with projects throughout the design process to gain a well-rounded sense of what a career in architecture resembles. The members of our internal Mentorship Committee will assign each intern to one major project for the summer where the interns will aid with smaller tasks throughout their time here, gaining knowledge and experience for their individual growth.
Alissa is a fourth-year student at Pennsylvania State University studying architecture with a minor in Architectural History. Alissa studied abroad at the Pantheon Institute in Rome, where she won first place in the Piranesi Prix de Roma Competition. She is an active member of the AIA Students chapter.
Shubh is in the fourth year of his program and Pennsylvania State University, pursuing a bachelor’s in architecture with minors in Economics and Art History. Shubh is an active member of his community and has been involved in various arts and architecture clubs throughout his educational career. He also studied at the Pantheon Institute in Rome and gained invaluable experience to strengthen his knowledge and appreciation for architecture.
Isaac is in his final year at Jefferson University’s College of Architecture & the Built Environment. Isaac aspires to accumulate a wealth of work experience while embracing opportunities to travel. Isaac recently embarked on a six-month internship with Olson Kundig in Seattle. Isaac gained valuable professional exposure while exploring a new city through this opportunity.
We look forward to any chance to share knowledge, experience, and community with others, and our internship program serves as the ideal opportunity to connect.
Willistown Township Unveils Their Renovated Township Building
Willistown Township recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony commemorating their newly renovated Township services building. The building houses an array of local government offices and staff serving the approximate 11,000 residents of Willistown. Originally constructed for the Willistown Police Department, this building was converted to its current administrative use when the Police Department moved into their new building in 2014. At that time, the Township made some minor modifications, however, the overall condition of the old building still needed further improvements.
Most notably, the building lacked ADA accessibility at the main public entrance, and the front porch itself was worn and degraded. Moreover, that same entrance did not have an adequately secure public lobby, and further lacked sufficient space for public transactions and business.
The front porch and main entry renovations include new decking, stairs, railings, columns, and lights. All elements of new construction and renovation were aesthetically aligned with the historical nature of the original building and surrounding areas. A new, wood-framed ramp, complementing the existing front porch construction, was added along the side of the building. This ramp now provides a clear, universally accessible pathway from the parking lot to the front entry.
Once inside the new front door, visitors find themselves in an enlarged secure lobby, isolated from the rest of the building. Township staff now have total control over visitor access to the various floor levels and office spaces of the building. This change enhances the safety and security of all the office occupants.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated these improvements, and we, at SG, are grateful for the opportunity to help the dedicated staff of Willistown Township.
We’re Thrilled to Share Some Exciting News – We’ve Moved!
SCHRADERGROUP has officially moved from our Manayunk (Philadelphia) office to a new location, just down the road in Conshohocken. This strategic move is not just about changing addresses, it’s about preparing for the future and improving our services for you, our valued partners and clients.
The relocation to Conshohocken allows us the opportunity to expand and enhance our operations. With a larger and more centrally located space, we’re better equipped to accommodate our growing team. As a result, more opportunities arise for talented professionals to join us, bringing an abundance of fresh ideas and expertise.
Our new office is located within the Spring Mill at Conshohocken Corporate Campus. Since its days as the Lee Tire and Rubber world headquarters, the Spring Mill Campus has been redeveloped, rebranded, and reimagined to form a creative workplace that inspires and connects those within it.
The new address is:
555 E. North Lane, Suite 5100, Building D
Conshohocken, PA 19428
Our phone number remains the same: 215.482.7440
Thank you for your continued trust and partnership with SCHRADERGROUP.
We look forward to seeing you in Conshohocken!
SCHRADERGROUP Welcomes Our New Public Safety Market Segment Leader, Pat McFeely!
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) is delighted to welcome Pat McFeely as our new Public Safety Market Segment Leader. Pat brings over three decades of experience in the Public Safety Market. His contributions will add to our dynamic team at SG!
Pat’s expertise will expand SG’s project delivery for facilities supporting Law Enforcement, Fire/EMS, 9-1-1 and Communications, Emergency Operations and other Mission Critical agencies. His primary responsibilities will include leading, operating, and growing our Public Safety Facilities sector. His capabilities include: defining the connection between facility and technology, site selection, building and site threat assessments, infrastructure and technology requirements, and ensuring the proper incorporation of technology and audio-visual systems into facility design.
Beyond Pat’s technical role, he will continue to support communications between our team and our clients, establishing and expanding our relationships within the community. He provides clear client interface, ensuring our design team meets the needs of each client’s vision. We at SG understand the value of client satisfaction, and Pat will continue to ensure a smooth interface.
With over thirty years of experience in the industry, Pat has served as an IT Director, an IT Infrastructure Manager, and an Enterprise Client Manager. One of his greatest accomplishments was partnering with FEMA on the Chemical Stockpile Emergency Preparedness Program (CSEPP). CSEPP was one of the largest international efforts to eliminate large-scale deadly chemical weapons. As part of this effort, Pat assisted in the design and construction of multiple EOC/9-1-1 centers nationally, all of which were located within the plume range of the CSEPP facilities. These facilities were equipped with high-tech systems to provide effective communication between first responders and citizens.
SG welcomes Pat McFeely to the team! We are excited to leverage his expertise for your future Public Safety and Mission Critical projects!
PennDOT District 6-0 Regional Traffic Management Center Recognized for 2024 ACEC/PA Diamond Award
The American Council of Engineering Companies of Pennsylvania (ACEC/PA) awarded PennDOT District 6-0’s Regional Traffic Management Center (RTMC) a Diamond Award in the Building/Technology Systems category. SCHRADERGROUP (SG) supported the team leader, Heim Construction, along with technology and engineering partners Jacobs and Bala Consulting Engineers. Completed in 2023, the new RTMC is a centralized traffic management hub in Upper Merion Township for PennDOT employees to monitor and safeguard traffic conditions throughout the greater Philadelphia region. The Diamond Award occurs annually and honors engineering firms that create highly innovative and efficient buildings. SG would like to extend our congratulations to the engineers and the entire design-build team.
Click here to see the project.
Project Highlight: Ben Franklin Middle School
In March of 2023, Ben Franklin Middle School officially opened its doors to the students and community of the Bristol Township School District. This project encompasses 118,000 SF of renovations and 38,000 SF of additions, transforming the school into a state-of-the-art learning environment.
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) completed the design for a full renovation of the existing building, implementing classroom reconfiguration to accommodate the growing student population and providing spaces for next-generation teaching and learning. Additional renovations include a new media center, cafeteria expansion, and the creation of multiple large group study areas providing the student population with more space and modern technology.
Additions to the building include a main lobby entry and reception area, an expanded administrative suite, two sets of Learning Stairs for student gathering, and additional classrooms and science labs. Each grade level has access to the Learning Stairs and its own dedicated Large Group Instruction, maximizing space for multimodal learning. Keeping in line with next-generational education methods, all students have access to the STEAM area, featuring the centralized library/media center, Tech Ed. Labs, and art classrooms. The layout of the school encourages students to research, make, and present their work efficiently.
Extensive site modifications include new turf and natural grass playing fields, parking lots and sidewalks, and stormwater management systems. The new, more spacious layout allows for safer, more accessible, and fluid movement during busy drop-off and pick-up times, particularly after separating the bus and car drop-off traffic loops.
Previously housed at Franklin D. Roosevelt Middle School, the student population now has an expanded facility with the latest technology and resources for next-generation learning. The transformed Ben Franklin Middle School is a symbol of progress for the future of this community. SG is thrilled to see the new middle school up and running and serving the Bristol Township community members.
Project Highlight: Anne Frank School
In August of 2022, Anne Frank School construction came to an end after major renovations and additions. The school was previously comprised of two buildings constructed in different eras: a 74,500 SF original school building constructed in 1962, and a smaller building: one of the School District of Philadelphia’s acclaimed Little School House structures. With the latest addition, SCHRADERGROUP successfully linked the buildings and formed a united academic facility, which now provides space for additional learning opportunities, centralized administration, and food service.
The addition features nine classrooms, a Learning Stair directly accessing the new media center, administrative and nursing suites, and an expansion of the Little School House cafeteria. Relocating the administrative suite allows the Anne Frank School to provide a centralized secure point of entry, thus improving the overall safety of students and faculty.
Anne Frank School is home to students from over forty nations, who speak over forty languages. The administration considers the school a model of diversity both in its population and available programs. With diversity as inspiration, SCHRADERGROUP designed the facility with multi-cultural and colorful graphics to celebrate the students’ heritage and backgrounds.
The original 1962 building is three stories and houses classrooms, the gymnasium, auditorium, and original cafeteria. This section of the school underwent a renovation consisting of new interior finishes, window systems, and general building systems.
SCHRADERGROUP optimized the layout of the existing school buildings through designs that benefit students and inspire creativity. The bridge linking the existing main building to the new addition is airy and colorful, with flexible seating to accommodate modern learning practices. The windows throughout the addition were designed with young learners in mind and provide a fun, colorful, and naturally lit area through which students can gain a new perspective.
The renovations and upgrades offer students up-to-date technology and amenities, encouraging growth through creative, student-centered spaces. The addition unites the school and allows it to function as a whole, rather than as separate parts. SCHRADERGROUP is honored to have worked on this project along with the School District of Philadelphia and wishes the students, administration, and families of Anne Frank School a bright future.
Photos: Halkin-Mason Photography
Phoenixville Area School District Hosts Groundbreaking Ceremony for its new Elementary School in East Pikeland Township
On Friday, December 8th, Phoenixville Area School District hosted its commemorative groundbreaking ceremony to kick off the construction phase of their new elementary school located on Hares Hill Road in East Pikeland Township, PA. The 98,500 SF facility will house 700 students from grades 2 through 6, alleviating overcrowding at the middle school by moving 6th grade students to the new building. This will be the first elementary school in East Pikeland since the previous school’s closing, and the Township residents are thrilled to welcome a new school to their community.
The school’s layout takes advantage of the existing terrain, creating a balanced, multilevel facility. Upon entering the school, the interior boasts an impressive Learning Stair, where students can socialize and participate in a collaborative learning environment. The Learning Stair leads to a specialized STEAM area on the second floor where the Art room, STEM room, and Media Center are located. One of the building’s key design features is an enclosed courtyard, providing a secure indoor-outdoor space for students to learn and play. The entire configuration of the facility promotes collaboration and a forward-looking educational experience.
SG understands the future of education involves new teaching methods emphasizing the importance of sustainability. With this in mind, solar panels will be installed on all south-facing and flat roofs, and a panel will be located in the courtyard for students to observe the benefits of this energy source. Additionally, through a rainwater collection system, students discover the benefits of collecting and reusing water for their courtyard gardens.
The community showed tremendous support at the groundbreaking ceremony, including students, parents, faculty, and staff, who echoed the excitement shown throughout the planning and design process. This new elementary school will be a landmark for Phoenixville Area School District, and SG is proud to have collaborated with the District on this achievement. The school is projected to open in the Fall of 2025.
To see more of our K-12 projects, click here.
Governor Mifflin School District Celebrates New Athletic Community Center Opening
On Saturday, December 2, Governor Mifflin School District hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to unveil their new Governor Mifflin Athletic Community Center (GMACC). Designed by SCHRADERGROUP (SG), the 68,000 SF GMACC features state-of-the-art athletic spaces, middle and high school classrooms, and an abundance of amenities. Located in the heart of the existing secondary school campus, the GMACC is more than a sports arena; it is part of a comprehensive plan to address space needs at the middle and high school by converting former physical education spaces to next-generation learning environments.
This community facility will not only serve the Governor Mifflin students and staff, but will be available for community use. At the core of the facility is the main competition gymnasium complete with multi-level bleachers seating up to 2,000 people. The publicly accessible fitness room at the main floor level features gym equipment for people of all ages and skill levels. To support physical education and athletics, locker rooms with specialized equipment-drying amenities and team rooms have direct access to the adjacent sports fields. On the upper level, a track borders the perimeter of the main gymnasium, and this floor also includes the wrestling room, multipurpose room, and a classroom for health education. The new center boasts a state-of-the-art sports medicine training room with taping tables and ice baths for injury treatment. There is also a fully stocked concession stand for sporting events.
The GMACC was conceived by the community, for the community. SG facilitated a community workshop process that put vision into motion for not only the GMACC, but for the future of Governor Mifflin School District. This facility serves as a commitment to community engagement, health, and wellness. More than just a sports facility, it is an anchor for the community and a place where the School District’s services seamlessly integrate with public life. The residents and students now have a new facility to connect, participate in sports and group activities, and achieve personal fitness goals. We at SG are very pleased to have been part of this process and to see this vision materialize for the district.
To see more SG athletic projects, click here.
Construction Advances for Great Valley School District’s New 5/6 Center
Great Valley School District is in the construction phase of its upcoming 5/6 Center. The new facility accommodates the district’s growing enrollment and provides unique spaces for students in this transitional age group to receive an education tailored to their needs. Recent construction progress on the exterior includes stone veneer finishing at the main entrance, wall and tile installation, metal roofing, and aluminum curtain wall and glazing installation.
Located on the same site as KD Markley Elementary School, the 5/6 Center creates a cohesive campus with improved circulation, dedicated bus drop-offs, and new playfields. The parent drop-off loop connects and serves both schools to alleviate congestion.
On the interior, classrooms, hallways, and learning stairs are emerging amidst the building’s evolving infrastructure. STEM spaces occupy what was the original 1939 schoolhouse, with the historic façade opening to the new library and media center. A set of Learning Stairs integrates the library, media center, Maker Lab, and flexible presentation space for fluid efficiency in conducting and presenting research. An atrium-style dining commons, with a second set of Learning Stairs, provides flexibility for dining and stage performances.
Those involved in the project, including the students and faculty, eagerly anticipate the new facility’s opening in the Fall of 2024. Construction momentum displays tangible success and instills excitement for the future.
To see more of our K-12 projects, click here.