Building & Renovating Schools

Professional Guidance for Planning, Design & Construction of School Facilities

Aging school facilities, population growth, new learning approaches, and technology are among the factors behind school construction projects, whether additions, renovations, or entirely new buildings. School building committees and administrators must work effectively with design professionals and the general contractor to ensure that their projects meet the school's needs within budget and on schedule. It is crucial that these three project team members understand the steps involved in the project and one another's roles and requirements, as they work together to achieve a favorable end result.

The authors of this book – architects, construction project managers, contractors, and estimators who specialize in school construction – provide start-to-finish, expert guidance on the process, from early planning and design through construction and the move into the new facility.

Planning and Design

• Planning the project and selecting the design team

• "Green" Design . . . for energy savings, water conservation, and healthy air quality

• Technology . . . planning for computer and building automation systems . . . and pitfalls to avoid

• Security . . . key considerations, equipment and design, and cost issues

• Specialty Spaces . . . requirements for sports, performing arts, libraries, art and science classrooms, and other unique areas

Case Studies

Recently completed school projects – major challenges and requirements, design strategy, and final costs.

School Construction Costs for Use in Creating Budget Estimates

Cost models for elementary, middle, and high school facilities including classrooms, auditoriums, libraries,administration areas, gyms, swimming pools, and more.

The Construction Process

• The construction contract and bidding procedures

• Estimating and monitoring project costs

• The construction schedule . . . how it's developed, updated, and reported

• The project team . . . how to work together effectively to meet the school's needs