Tag: SG
SCHRADERGROUP Welcomes Nine Additional Team Members to our Growing Team!
In recent months, our team at SCHRADERGROUP (SG) has grown by leaps and bounds. We’ve welcomed some truly exceptional individuals and we’re eager to shine a spotlight on each of them.
David Long
Project Architect
Drexel University – Bachelor of Architecture
David is an accomplished Architectural and Project Designer with more than seven years of experience in both existing and ground-up building design. He specializes in conceptual design and analysis through construction documentation and contract administration for mixed-use commercial buildings, hotels, community centers, religious facilities, retail buildings, public buildings, industrial buildings and multi-unit student housing. He graduated from Drexel University and acquired a NAAB accredited Bachelor of Architecture. David has extensive experience from projects located in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Texas, and Virginia.
At SG, David is actively involved with our education projects. His responsibilities encompass project design, project management, as well as liaising with consultants and clients. While fulfilling his current role, David is also preparing for a future transition into construction administration.
“The eventuality of space, the finished product, becomes exceptionally rewarding when you were a part of the design.” – David
Kate McKenna, Associate AIA
Architectural Designer
Pennsylvania State University – Bachelor of Architecture
Kate is a recent Pennsylvania State University graduate with a bachelor’s degree in architecture. During her time in school, Kate had the opportunity to study abroad in Rome for a semester. Additionally, she pursued three minors in Landscape Architecture, Fine Art, and Architectural History. Prior to her graduation, Kate gained architectural experience by completing an internship at WEBBER/SMITH Associates. Post graduation, Kate gained more architectural experience at Benchmark Group, Inc.
At SG, Kate assists with the schematic and design development of projects such as Davis County EOC, the Garnet Valley Pennington Building, and Northern York Middle School. Kate has also helped master planning layouts with the Abington School District and Owen J. Roberts School District. Post graduation, Kate had the intention of pursuing school design and is excited to finally start learning about it.
“-we’re constantly learning every day! New situations come and go and there are always other ways to do something.” – Kate
Craig Lucas
Project Architect
Pennsylvania College of Technology – Bachelor of Science & Associate of Applied Science
Craig is an accomplished individual with eight years of experience in the Architecture and Construction industries. He has worked with various building typologies and construction methods, and he holds a strong passion for creating sustainable and timeless architecture.
At SG, Craig collaborates with his team to ensure the timely completion of projects, within budget, and meeting the desires and needs of SG’s clients. His primary aim is to create inspiring environments for the people who use them. Craig’s main focus is on SG’s academic buildings, where he designs spaces that cater to students of all ages, facilitating both learning and enjoyment.
Craig is thrilled to advance his career with SG, as he firmly believes that “SG consistently produces innovative, well thought out designs that prove to be both functional and creative.” Upon joining SG, he immediately recognized the firm’s commitment to exceeding client expectations. Furthermore, he is delighted to be part of a team comprised of hardworking, skilled, and creative individuals, making his experience at SG truly enjoyable and rewarding.
“The spaces that we design have a great impact on the way that we experience our environment.” – Craig
Colleen Deluca
Senior Interior Designer
The Art Institute of Philadelphia – Bachelor of Science in Interior Design
Colleen is a constant professional with over a decade of experience in the field of Interior Design. During this span, she distinguished herself as an assistant kitchen designer at Kitchen Technology, where her collaboration with the chief designer led to the development of innovative kitchen and bathroom designs. Utilizing AutoKitchen, Colleen adeptly produced 3D computer-generated renderings that played a pivotal role in helping clients visualize proposed spaces—an indispensable component of the design process.
Afterward, Colleen transitioned to the role of an Interior Designer at Bernardon. Her responsibilities included providing interior design services for a variety of project types, with a primary focus on multifamily projects. Collaborating with colleagues including designers, architects, consultants, and vendors, she played a key role in guiding projects from initial concepts to completion.
In addition, Colleen provided valuable assistance to the FF&E procurement manager, helping with tasks like quoting, tracking, updating internal databases, and coordinating installations. Colleen’s tenure at Bernardon showcased her multifaceted skill set and her commitment to contributing across various dimensions of the interior design process.
Within SG, Colleen is responsible for delivering interior design services for a diverse set of projects, starting from the initial concept and seeing them through to completion. Her role involves close collaboration with the SG team as well as playing a key part in supporting and mentoring fellow members of the interiors team.
“It is very rewarding creating a space that helps the individual have a better day and experience due to the way the space is designed.” – Colleen
Wiley Muck
Architectural Designer
Temple University – Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Architecture
Wiley is a highly accomplished individual who recently earned his Master’s degree in Architecture. He had previously interned with us at SG and has now joined our team as a full-time employee!
During his internship, Wiley’s responsibilities centered on conducting facility assessments, with a primary emphasis on modeling the existing structures of numerous schools across diverse school districts. Now, as he transitions into full-time employment, he is gaining a deeper level of involvement in the overall project processes.
In his recent role at SG, Wiley has been extensively involved in the task of integrating new programmatic elements into pre-existing buildings, often necessitating the reprogramming of these structures for fresh purposes. Concurrently, he has made significant contributions to SG’s Fieldhouse and athletic facility projects, lending his expertise to the intricate detailing and precise production of drawings.
“Being able to see something that I worked on get built and then used is something that I think about a lot and what keeps me on this path.” – Wiley
Brenda Cass, LEED AP
Architectural Designer
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology – Associate of Art and Sciences, Architectural Technology
Brenda is an exceptionally meticulous Architectural Designer, possessing a strong aptitude for resolving intricate technical and design challenges, all while adhering to and actively enhancing established standards. With over 25 years of experience, Brenda excels in BIM modeling and construction documentation for an array of projects, including high-end custom homes, luxurious amenities spaces for multi-family developments, retirement cottages, and country clubs. She possesses extensive proficiency in Revit BIM modeling and is well-versed in the art of Enscape live rendering.
At SG, Brenda has been involved in various assignments, including the creation of Revit families for interiors casework and trim for a wedding venue. Additionally, Brenda has initiated the furnishing of a model for a middle school to develop an engaging presentation for the staff and School District. Moving forward, she will continue to excel in her role, focusing on Revit modeling, construction documentation, as well as producing Enscape still renderings and immersive 3D live walk-through presentations.
“I love the problem-solving side of things, the technical nitty-gritty working out the puzzle of making things fit together in the intricacies of building construction and detailing.” – Brenda
Samantha Yaros, Associate AIA
Architectural Designer
Penn State University – Bachelor of Architecture
Samantha, a recent graduate from Penn State University, holds a bachelor’s degree in architecture. Throughout the past couple of years, she has gained practical experience by interning at Baglivo Associates as an architectural intern. Additionally, Samantha showcased her passion for art and served as an art ambassador at Penn State University. These experiences have undoubtedly enriched her skills and knowledge in the field. Samantha possesses proficiency in a range of essential architectural software and design tools. She is well-versed in utilizing Rhinoceros, AutoCAD, Lumion, Adobe Creative Suite products, and Word Productions. With her comprehensive skills in these applications, Samantha is equipped to effectively tackle architectural projects and bring innovative design ideas to life.
At SG, Samantha actively contributes to various projects by assisting with surveys and gaining insight into a diverse range of project scales and types, including additions and renovations. Additionally, she diligently documents any modifications that occur throughout the design process to ensure thorough documentation.
“Taking something from a concept all the way through to a full modeled design is exciting to see take place before your eyes.” – Samantha
Sabrina Gonzalez
Interior Designer
Thomas Jefferson University – Bachelor of Interior Design
Sabrina is a recent graduate from Thomas Jefferson University with a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design. Sabrina gained almost a year of experience as an intern at BEAM Illuminating architecture. Sabrina proficiently utilized Revit and AutoCAD software to strategically position lighting fixtures in Reflected Ceiling Plans (RCPs) and developed lighting control intent plans. She skillfully compiled specifications for fixture schedules and lighting manuals using Excel and InDesign.
Additionally, Sabrina renders lighting plans and creates captivating concept renderings using Photoshop. She employs AGI software to construct models for accurate photometric predictions. Furthermore, she diligently conducted construction submittal reviews and maintained regular communication with representatives to obtain estimates for potential fixtures in projects. Sabrina also contributed to marketing efforts by updating the company portfolio with completed projects.
At SG, Sabrina is involved with handling furniture and finishing schedules, as well as creating detailed interior drawings and organizing sheet layouts. Additionally, she takes charge of ordering finished samples and communicates with representatives to procure materials for various projects.
“-the process of turning a design concept into reality. It really pays off going through all of the work a project requires and seeing it come to life at the end.” – Sabrina
Caitlyn Keomanyvong
Marketing Assistant
Geroge Mason University – Bachelor of Criminology
Currently, Caitlyn is in the final stages of completing her undergraduate studies at George Mason University. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree with a major in Criminology and a minor in forensic psychology. Caitlyn is driven by her aspirations to acquire extensive knowledge and contribute to promoting SG to the best of her capabilities. She is committed to continuous learning and dedicated to maximizing her efforts in advancing the goals of the company. Caitlyn exhibits a strong sense of self-motivation and possesses notable skills in writing and research. She is driven to excel in these areas and consistently demonstrates a high level of dedication and proficiency.
At SG, Caitlyn focuses on creating engaging content to promote the company. She takes charge of crafting captivating blog posts that highlight awards, events, conferences, and other relevant topics. Additionally, Caitlyn plays an active role in curating social media content, developing posts for platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Her contributions help maintain an active and engaging online presence for the company.
“I have always had a deep appreciation for architecture and interior design. Watching professionals embark on projects and seeing their remarkable journey from start to finish is endlessly inspiring.” – Caitlyn
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering dedication and hard work. Your contributions are deeply valued, and we are eagerly looking forward to our continued growth together at SG. Thank you for being an essential part of SG.
Interested in working with us? Visit our Careers page to see what opportunities are available at SG here.
SCHRADERGROUP Welcomes the New Principal of Sales and Marketing!
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) would like to extend a warm welcome to Matt as he integrates into the SG team and takes a leadership role in the sales and marketing department!
Matt Wittemann, CPSM
Principal of Sales and Marketing
University of Tampa – Bachelor of Science, Marketing
Matt holds the pivotal role of overseeing and implementing sales and marketing strategies and initiatives for SG. Within the domain of business development and sales, his responsibilities include the maintenance and cultivation of client relationships, strategic planning, lead generation, and acquisition. In the realm of marketing, he is tasked with formulating brand strategy and enhancing brand recognition. Moreover, he manages and supervises various critical aspects of our firm’s marketing efforts, including proposal submissions, presentations, advertising, social media, photography, award submissions, and other targeted marketing efforts.
Matt is a marketing and business strategist with more than 15 years of experience within the architecture, engineering, and construction industries. He specializes in client relationship management, sales, marketing, and strategic planning. As a thought leader and industry expert, he became a Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM) through the Society of Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) in 2017. He is also an active participant and a member of the Lifestyle Residential Development council through the Urban Land Institute (ULI) and the Eastern Region of APPA (ERAPPA).
Additionally, Matt has successfully led a multitude of marketing and public relations campaigns, all while directing and supervising critical aspects of the firm’s operations. This includes managing proposal submissions, presentations, public relations initiatives, brand development, photography, award applications, and an array of specialized marketing endeavors, such as the creation of newsletters, e-blasts, bespoke brochures, and promotional materials.
“I am extremely honored to lead the sales and marketing department here at SG. As a firm already with a tremendous reputation and culture, my goals are to expand the firm’s awareness, build and differentiate the SG brand, drive business development activities, and absorb and foster each client’s mission and vision.” – Matt
Welcome to the team Matt! We are thrilled to have you here at SG and are excited to grow alongside each other!
Interested in working with us? Visit our Careers page to see what opportunities are available at SG here.
SCHRADERGROUP Welcomes to the Team, Our Newest Project Manager!
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Doug Perry, who has joined the SCHRADERGROUP (SG) team as our newest Project Manager. We are excited to have him on board and look forward to his contributions on future projects.
Doug Perry, AIA, LEED AP
Project Manager
University of Nebraska – Bachelors of Science in Architectural Science, Masters of Architecture
With over 18 years of experience in the architectural industry, predominantly in the Philadelphia region, Doug has established himself as a highly accomplished professional. His expertise encompasses various areas, including project planning, design development, construction documentation, and construction management.
Doug has effectively managed projects in various sectors including government, pharmaceuticals, higher education, and commercial real estate. His expertise is a valuable asset to SCHRADERGROUP, particularly his significant contributions to Public Safety facilities including both Law Enforcement and Fire Station design.
Notably, he possesses extensive knowledge of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and adeptly utilizes it throughout the design and construction processes. Furthermore, Doug exhibits a comprehensive understanding of diverse project types and exhibits strong leadership qualities, offering guidance and direction to multi-disciplinary design teams.
At SG, Doug takes on the responsibility of overseeing an array of projects, ranging from renovations of elementary schools to the construction of a new police department headquarters. His primary focus is on achieving successful project completion, all while prioritizing the utmost satisfaction of clients.
“Collaborating with clients, consultants, and the wider project team adds to the rewarding nature of the work.” – Doug
Welcome Doug! We are excited to have you on board the SG team. Our team is excited to share our company culture and practices with you and look forward to witnessing your continued success within the company.
Interested in working with us? Visit our Careers page to see what opportunities are available at SG here.
SCHRADERGROUP: Enhancing Your Community with Next Generation Learning Environments
WE BELIEVE ACADEMIC DESIGN TRULY IS THE DESIGN FOR THE FUTURE
Over 19 years as a firm, SCHRADERGROUP (SG) completed over 200 projects in design for education and devoted the majority of its practice to learning environments. We are focused on creating learning environments specific to your vision for developing the leaders and thinkers for tomorrow.
Our Partners and Associates have over three decades of experience in academic facility design and are involved with school associations locally, nationally, and internationally (PASBO, DVASBO, NSBA, PSBA, A4LE, and others.) With this experience, the SG leadership continues to be committed to academic design to ensure the best experience for you.
SG employs 40+ full-time professional staff and is a full-service architecture firm offering planning and design services in the areas of architecture, structural engineering, planning, interior design, and construction administration. SG has the capacity to design over $400 million in construction projects per year.
The SG team works diligently to deliver projects in the most timely and cost effective manner and offers solutions that will satisfy programming standards of facilities nationally. With this effort, the stage is set for a design that will be entirely appropriate to its setting while satisfying the ergonomic needs of the using agencies.
Check out our a few of our K-12 Projects here.
Downloads of our K-12 flyer, brochure, and SOQ are available here.
And downloads of our tour book and brochure on our star project, Upper Merion Area High School, are available here.
PennDOT Southeastern Regional Traffic Management Center and Parking Garage recognized as Alternative Delivery Project of the Year (2022)
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) is proud to announce that the PennDOT District 6 Regional Traffic Management Center (RTMC), for which we served as the design team with design-builder Heim Construction, was recognized by March of Dimes as the Alternative Delivery Project of the year! The award was received by Louis Belmonte, on behalf of PennDOT District 6.
The Alternative Delivery Project of the Year Award recognizes exceptional projects that have been executed using alternative project delivery methods. In the case of the RTMC project, DGS and PennDOT agreed to use the Design-Build delivery method to economize on schedule, budget, and process. The award acknowledges this and highlights projects that have successfully implemented these alternative delivery methods while achieving outstanding results in terms of design, construction, cost management, and overall project success.
Photography by Todd Mason
The PennDOT District 6 Project is a 24/7 regional traffic management center (RTMC) that uses Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to help manage and monitor traffic patterns as well as to improve the flow of traffic throughout the Philadelphia region. The new RTMC is an impressive and modern facility designed to prioritize safety and to improve traffic flows by using state-of-the-art technology, including advanced traffic management systems, ITS, and a network of cameras and sensors. The RTMC has been constructed to help leverage these technologies as the region’s roadway network is modified and improved in coming years.
Within the RTMC facility, there are dedicated staff members assigned to monitor live camera feeds as well as electronic traffic sensors, ensuring the accurate and timely reporting of crucial information to emergency services, local transportation agencies, and law enforcement. User amenities abound in the facility as next generation communication and control centers begin to reflect the ergonomic needs of the users who work long hours to protect the region’s drivers.
SCHRADERGROUP is proud to have been part of the Heim design-build team to develop this incredible project for PennDOT, DGS and for the region’s drivers.
To see more of our public safety projects, click here.
SCHRADERGROUP: Next-Generation Learning Environments Presented at A4LE NE Region Conference Talk & Tours
The A4LE Northeast Region Conference is an annual event bringing together professionals from the education and design communities to discuss innovative ideas, research, and best practice to create effective learning environments. The conference typically features keynote presentations, workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. This year, SCHRADERGROUP (SG) had the pleasure of attending and presenting our latest project, Upper Merion Area High School. SG also gave tours of UMAHS as well as other projects; Springfield High School, Enfield Elementary School, Phoenixville Area Early Learning Center/Manavon Elementary School.
David Schrader, SG’s managing partner, along with Superintendent of Schools, Dr. John Toleno and Building Principal Johnathan Bauer, presented a session titled “This is so meant for us! Student Focused Design to Inspire Personal Achievement, The Next Generation High School”. This session profiled a very unique learning environment constructed in King of Prussia, PA to support 21st Century learning styles. The building was designed to reflect current business model practices and provides opportunities across multiple grade levels for advanced course offerings and unique learning styles. The presentation also offered a comparison of students’ reflection on their learning experience in traditional post-industrial environments versus the learning spaces designed in the new facility centered around self-directed learning environments.
In addition to the presentation, SG provided tours of 4 of our schools for A4LE attendees. The schools that were toured included: Upper Merion Area High School, Springfield High School, Enfield Elementary School, Phoenixville Area Early Learning Center/Manavon Elementary School. You can read more about each school below.
Photography By Halkin Mason
Upper Merion Area High School offers students dedicated spaces for career exploration and advanced education, promoting 21st-century learning activities such as research, development, and presentation. The school is committed to providing students with state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support their academic and professional growth. These purpose-built spaces are specifically designed to facilitate research, encourage innovation and creativity, and enable students to effectively present their findings and projects. UMAHS recognizes the importance of preparing students for the evolving demands of the modern world, and its design reflects this commitment to fostering a dynamic learning environment.
Check out more information about Upper Merion Area High School here.
Photography By Halkin Mason
Springfield High School is strategically located within proximity to a significant portion of the town, thanks to the dense nature of this community. This intentional placement enables many residents to conveniently walk to the school. Furthermore, the design of the school reflects deep consideration for the community it serves. Every aspect of the school’s architecture and layout has been thoughtfully planned to align with the needs and values of the surrounding community. By keeping the community in mind throughout the design process, Springfield High School aims to foster a strong sense of connection and collaboration between the school and its residents. This facility was designed in partnership with Perkins and Will Architects.
Check out more information about Springfield High School here.
Photography By Halkin Mason
Enfield Elementary School is thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of young learners, creating a welcoming community atmosphere that focuses on both public and academic spaces. The school’s layout revolves around a serene courtyard, symbolically embracing the children and fostering an optimal outdoor learning environment. Surrounding this peaceful central area, classroom wings are strategically placed to enhance the overall learning experience.
Check out more information about Enfield Elementary School here.
Photography By Matt Wargo
Phoenixville Area Early Learning Center and Manavon Elementary School have been purposefully designed to accommodate two distinct grade structures, following a unique “school within a school” format. The ELC is dedicated to nurturing and educating students in grades K-1, providing them with a specialized learning environment tailored to their early educational needs. On the other hand, the ES focuses on grades 2-5, offering a comprehensive curriculum and resources specifically designed to meet the developmental requirements of older elementary students. This innovative design ensures that each grade structure receives the appropriate educational support and fosters an optimal learning experience for all students.
Check out more information about Phoenixville Area Early Learning Center and Manavon Elementary School here.
If you want to learn more about SG, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. To see our latest projects, please visit our website sgarc.com
SCHRADERGROUP Committed to Student Engagement and Mentorship to the Architectural Design Community at PSU
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) has consistently demonstrated its unwavering support and continues to express commitment to both Pennsylvania State University (PSU) and the architectural design community within it. Some of the ways that SG provides opportunities and community engagement with the architectural design students at PSU includes career fairs, internship opportunities, alumni speaking engagements, and more.
Here are some of SG’s most recent experiences:
PSU Spring Career Day
Photography by Natasha Kravchenko
The Stuckeman School had its 37th annual Career Day hosted alongside the University’s “Spring Career Days” at the Bryce Jordan Center. The SG team was represented by Jeremy Ross (PSU Class of 2016), Paige Faria (PSU Class of 2018), and Jillian Kreglow (PSU Class of 2021). The SG team spoke to many curious design students about SG as a firm, our projects, and our internship opportunities.
Photography by Natasha Kravchenko
SG is always thrilled to catch up with familiar faces, meet up-and-coming designers, and network with talented colleagues. The Stuckeman School Career Day is an annual event that allows professional firms to interact directly with PSU’s award-winning students. This year, 90 architectural offices attended and over 230 students attended the fair. This exciting event provides students with an opportunity to network and explore potential career fields in Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Graphic Design. SG has a diverse team of talented employees, some of whom are also graduates of the Penn State Stuckeman School.
Another example of SG at PSU recently includes our Architectural Designer Paige Faria speaking about her current experience working at SG.
“10 Things I Wish I Knew or Did Differently”
Photography by Natasha Kravchenko
Paige Faria, PSU alumni of 2018, presented with the PSU Architecture Alumni Group (AAG) their “10 Things I Wish I Knew or Did Differently” at the Stuckeman Family Building Jury Space. The presentation covered lessons learned over many years of combined professional experience in the architecture field by PSU AAG.
The PSU AAG provides a connection with alumni to promote interaction between alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends for the benefit and ongoing improvement of the PSU Architecture department. The PSU AAG board of directors acts as an informal advisory group to the PSU Architecture department. Paige Faria serves on the board as the communications committee chair, keeping alumni updated on current events via social media, newsletters, and more.
The discussion included insights such as ‘putting failure into context’, ‘professional practice is not just a class’, ‘invest in your internship’ and more. Students participated in a discussion afterward and were able to meet up with alumni one-on-one for further insight.
Some of the other speakers include alumni Alex Donahue (B.Arch ’12, M.Arch II ’13), Kyrie Martin (B.Arch ’15), Daniel Lopatka (B.Arch ’22), Matthew Graham (B. Arch ’12), and LewYong Gerbrandt (M.Arch I ’22).
To learn more about the PSU AAG, please visit this site.
Photography by Natasha Kravchenko
SG is always grateful for the opportunity to connect with the future graduates of PSU and the design community. We look forward to continuing to engage with the future architectural designers at PSU!
If you want to learn more, be sure to follow SG on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. To see our latest projects, please visit our website sgarc.com
Upper Merion Area School District’s Upper Merion Area High School Recognized as an Outstanding Project in American School & University’s Fall 2022 Architectural Portfolio
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) is proud to announce that our recently completed project, Upper Merion Area School District’s new Upper Merion Area High School, has received an Outstanding Project Award from American School & University for its Fall 2022 Architectural Portfolio.
SG is excited to have another project featured in this prestigious publication. We have thoroughly enjoyed working with Upper Merion Area School District (UMASD) and are honored to have this excellent school featured in this issue.
American School and University (AS&U) is a magazine dedicated to the planning, design, construction, retrofit, operations, maintenance, and management of education facilities. It is intended to showcase the latest trends, technologies, and strategies driving educational facilities and the market.
AS&U honors educational design projects each year through multiple design competitions. One of these competitions is the Architectural Portfolio, the premier showcase celebrating the best in education design.
After a complete community-engaged master planning process and subsequent successful new elementary school projects, Upper Merion Area School District (UMASD) began the process of creating a flagship facility to house the upper secondary programs for the District. A thorough process was utilized, including multiple user meetings and tours of state-of-the-art facilities throughout the United States.
The intent behind the facility is to provide career and higher education level spaces for the students of UMASD to engage in the 21st-century learning activities of “research, develop, and present!” Multiple hi-tech industry workspaces as well as contemporary higher education spaces were studied in the process of the development of this unique facility.
The 345,000 SF facility is connected to the existing middle school through the athletic and performing arts facilities to provide a full secondary campus. The resulting facility provides enriching opportunities for students from the traditional 6th-grade through 12th-grade ages.
A true “student commons” is the heart of the facility and will be an “all-day” area for multiple activities. The commons is a two-story open space with learning resources located on the second level to enhance the research and project-based components mixed with dining and food-based opportunities on the ground floor. After hours, the “commons” space will provide pre- and post-activity support for both the athletic as well as the performing arts complexes. A full competition gymnasium and competition swimming venue is the connector to the middle school. The performing arts complex provides a complete 650-seat theater with a balcony and all supporting performing arts spaces.
Student services, technology distribution, and support spaces are located between the commons space and the academic area. A three-story academic wing supports the core academic programs with a STEAM-based center, multiple project and team-based spaces, and a three-story learning stair. The learning stair connects all core programs vertically to enhance the cross-pollination of learning activities. Transparency is a key aspect of the facility’s design and is utilized to promote the visual connection between each of the learning activities.
The new facility was constructed while the existing high school on site was still occupied. The existing facility is currently being demolished, and new playing fields will be constructed in its place.
A unique site feature is an underground stream bisecting the site. The project chooses to highlight that challenge by exposing the stream at its outfall within a new outdoor amphitheater and teaching area. This outdoor space enhances internal building program opportunities by connecting them to the exterior. The stream provides for science-based learning activities directly on campus. The new facility allows the students of UMASD to have tremendous additional learning opportunities.
You can view our entry in the Fall 2022 Architectural Portfolio issue of American School & University on page 73 here.
Learn more about the Upper Merion Area High School here.
SG is proud to have partnered with Upper Merion Area School District. Learn more about this great school district here.
SCHRADERGROUP Attends 36th Annual DVASBO Trade Show
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) recently attended the Delaware Valley Association of School Board Officials (DVASBO)’s 36th Annual Trade Show on Wednesday, November 9th at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, PA.
SG was proud to attend and exhibit at this conference once again. It was great to return to the trade show this year and to see so many friendly and familiar faces. SG was proud to assist in DVASBO’s mission of developing and supporting leaders in school business operations for the counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery.
The Trade Show was attended by Managing Partner David Schrader and Associate Devin Bradbury. The day included prize drawings, seminars, exhibitions, breakfast, and lunch.
It was great to be at a trade show again and to physically see everyone and talk to people face-to-face. We had great fun connecting with school business officials and we look forward to attending again next year!
DVASBO is a regional chapter of the Pennsylvania Association of School Business Officials (PASBO). For nearly five decades, DVASBO has been supporting school professionals in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties. The organization currently has over 1,000 members and is devoted to providing members with education, training, professional development, and timely access to legislative and policy news. The SG team would like to thank the DVASBO staff for organizing this trade show. To learn more about DVASBO, click here.
To learn more about SCHRADERGRPOUP’s commitment to educational facilities, click here.
SCHRADERGROUP Recognized as an EPiC Firm by American Institute of Architects Pennsylvania Chapter
SCHRADERGROUP (SG) is proud to announce that the Pennsylvania Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) has recognized SG for our support and development of emerging professionals in 2022.
The AIA Pennsylvania Emerging Professionals Committee (EpiC) was established to improve the network, role, and impact of Emerging Professionals throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The committee distinguished SG for successfully supporting the emerging professionals on our staff and for demonstrating a commitment to the development of Pennsylvania’s emerging professionals.
We would like to thank the PA AIA and we are honored to be included on this list of esteemed firms. You can view the full list here.
To learn more about SCHRADERGROUP, please click here.