As a part of a new 14-acre science and technology development on the Drexel Campus in Philadelphia, Rogers Partners is working with Drexel University to design a new K-8th grade public school. The new 100,000 square foot building will move and co-locate two premier public schools. Pairing one of the city’s most beloved elementary schools, Powel Elementary, with Philadelphia’s most recognized innovation school, the Science Leadership Academy Middle School, the design allows each distinct institution to operate autonomously while sharing select spaces and programs with one another and the community.

The design balances programmatic efficiency with bright, open spaces. The two-story school building, nestled into a sloped site, offers large windows throughout circulation and classroom spaces, providing welcoming and abundant sunlight during school hours.

The programming layout of daily operations informs a unique spatial solution and a model for the co-location of educational institutions. Two central open stairs encourage interaction between the two schools and enable each school to operate autonomously while sharing select spaces and programs. Collaboration and informal learning spaces are clustered around these double-height circulation spaces, where natural light is maximized. The program includes core learning spaces, science labs, maker space, library, art and music spaces, administration offices, and a gymnasium and cafetorium with public entrances to allow community use.