Project File: Learning opportunities

Willow Hill School for grades 6 to 12 in Sudbury, Mass., recently completed construction of a 20,000-square-foot, two-level academic and athletic facility. It features standard and science lab classrooms, a computer lab, an art room on the lower level, offices, a library and a full-size gymnasium on the upper level.

The two floors are separated by sound-isolation systems. To blend this new building with the rest of the New England-style campus, a pre-fabricated subframe and hardi-panel system was installed to create a cost-effective New England farmhouse design. The building was delivered on budget and on time last September.

Existing classrooms were situated only 1 foot from the job site in some areas during the construction. To minimize disruption during this 11-month project, the construction manager employed its “Outside the Construction Fence” program. By establishing various points of contact, including the creation of a website on the project, the construction manager was able to integrate with the community and educate students, faculty and parents. Tours also were conducted to provide a safe environment for curious youngsters to learn about the project.

The architect for this project is McManus Peterman Architects, Inc. (Cambridge, Mass.). Shawmut Design and Construction (Boston) is the construction manager.