Grant Park School Design Competition

The proposed Grant Park School building design prioritizes efficiency and sustainability while accommodating a diverse program within a multi-story layout. The lower levels of the building house high-traffic, community-accessible spaces such as the competitive gymnasium, auditorium, and medical office suites, ensuring public access without compromising school security. A secure main entrance with controlled entry enhances safety, while a centralized vertical circulation core facilitates seamless movement between floors. Instructional spaces, including classrooms for Pre-K through 8th grade, small group instruction rooms, and dedicated areas for music, art, and computer labs, are positioned on the upper levels. The full kitchen and servery are located near the cafeteria for efficient food service operations, with adjacent staff facilities for convenience. Despite site constraints, rooftop play areas provide valuable outdoor space, complementing roof-level playgrounds and maximizing recreational opportunities for all students.

Sustainability was a key design driver, with the school targeting LEED Silver certification through an all-electric HVAC system powered by ground-source or air-source heat pumps. The integration of extensive daylight harvesting, energy recovery ventilation, and LED lighting with automated controls will reduce overall energy consumption, while low-VOC materials and stormwater retention strategies – including green roofs – enhance indoor air quality and environmental responsibility. Photovoltaic solar panels and battery storage support renewable energy generation, ensuring resilience during power outages.

The competitive swimming pool, featuring regulation-sized lanes, spectator seating, and dedicated locker rooms, serves both students and the community, reinforcing the school’s civic role. Thoughtful site planning includes designated areas for bus loading, parent drop-off, staff parking, and emergency access, ensuring smooth daily operations. By balancing functionality, sustainability, and community engagement, the new Grant Park School building in Yonkers NY provides a state-of-the-art learning environment that supports student growth while fostering long-term environmental stewardship.

Project Facts