WEST BRISTOL SCHOOL

Bristol, CT, United States

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WEST BRISTOL SCHOOL

Bristol, CT, United States

Firm

DRA architects

Type

Educational › Elementary School High School

STATUS

Built

YEAR

2016

West Bristol School is located on a 26-acre site of a dormant farm. A significant challenge was to “choreograph” the circulation to control the confluence of the younger and older student bodies. The radial plan with self sufficient wings separates each “school” while interaction can be planned in spaces like the lobby, library and cafeteria. Panels with specific graphics associated with either the middle or elementary school aid in wayfinding.

The design includes classroom space for 100 students per grade and offers flexibility in the gym, media center and cafeteria to support a variety of academic and community functions. The cafeteria is “zoned” with moveable panels that subtly separate the elementary and middle school populations. Outdoor seating and perching stones provide gathering space. Break-out spaces are “carved-out” in the corridors with accent lighting, canopies, “sitting islands” on the floors and translucent marker boards for small group assembly. Large murals relate historical information about Bristol and Connecticut.