Richmond Christian School

Richmond, 2008 and 2014

This private secondary school is given character by opening all the spaces to natural light, and providing views to the surrounding landscape. The form of the building follows the daylight strategy - the gymnasium slopes up to the north to collect northern light, and the classrooms to the south to allow for deep penetration of winter sun. Exposed structural wood decking provides warmth and texture to interior spaces with very little cost.

The overwhelming success of the first Richmond Christian School soon led to the need for an expansion.  Our proposal of simple forms, south facing glass, deep overhangs and exterior shading, had to go head to head with portable trailers on a cost basis, and yet won out on a cost benefit analysis.

design by Allen + Maurer Architects with KMBR Architects

2009 Citation Award, Council of Educational Facility Planners International