This project was designed under the NYC SCA’s innovative 3K Capacity program, where existing or under construction buildings are re-purposed for use as schools to rapidly increase the seating capacity of 3K programs across the city.

Corona 3K is located in Corona, Queens, one of the fastest growing neighborhoods in the city with more than 30% of the neighborhood under 18 years old. High-quality public childcare and schooling is therefore in huge demand. Our project set out to deliver a highly comfortable, efficient, healthy and playful 3K center to serve this urgent community need.

Despite challenges presented by the existing core and the quick turnaround time, we significantly improved sustainability in the project and implemented Passive House principles to reduce energy as well as provide benefits in air quality and acoustic isolation- important as the school sits next to the elevated tracks of the 7 train.  

Working with the existing structure, strict design and cost requirements from the SCA, and a rapid timeline, we delivered a colorful, bright, and welcoming facility with high-performance detailing benefitting the occupant and the environment.