CaCo designed and implemented various renovation and addition scopes throughout the existing B.H. Macon Elementary School.  A 16 Classroom Addition, inclusive of a 10,000 SF Storm Shelter to meet ICC-500 code, was strategically planned along the front of the existing school, allowing a new façade from the street’s edge, maximizing the site. This new addition encloses an existing courtyard in the center of the school which has been redeveloped as a gardening and communal learning space. The facade respects the architectural vocabulary of the existing school while expressing modern and playful details, such as the colorful window panels distinguishing each classroom and punctuating the classroom wing elevation.  

 

The Reception/Administration Addition was designed to create a controlled entry point, also becoming the main accessible entry point; existing ramps and entry doorways were modified to satisfy the accessibility code. Kitchen/Cafeteria, Art and Music Classrooms were enlarged and transformed to provide parity with other DISD schools, effectively increasing the school footprint. Sensitivity to the original building’s architectural vocabulary was important and considered while developing the concept for the additions; the new Entrance canopy incorporates the school name and is anchored by a masonry pillar housing the original school’s bell, seamlessly integrating structural and architectural elements.  

 

​Our team worked closely with the District and School’s Principal to establish the renovation scope to meet the District’s budget and School’s needs. Corridor improvements provide a bright and inviting ambiance, which flawlessly help blend the new additions to the school’s existing classrooms. The project was designed to meet the CHPS (Collaborative for High Performance Schools) Designed Sustainability Guidelines, and City of Dallas’ Green Ordinance requirements.