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Education

PS 330Q Helen M. Marshall School

PS 330Q Helen M. Marshall school, built for the New York City School Construction Authority, replaced a temporary school structure with a light-filled, 4-story building that spans a city block. The building is designed around a glass-enclosed “gymnatorium,” a transparent multi-purpose space that filters light and views throughout the building. Along with other common spaces, the gymnatorium provides a community hub for the neighborhood.

Classrooms are situated along the building’s quiet south side, with views of Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Strategies to mitigate glare and optimize natural light were among sustainable features that met the SCA’s Green School Guidelines, and earned a LEED Certified Equivalent. Hallways, stairs, abundant transparent walls, and exterior views are designed to enable children to orient themselves intuitively, and color-coded floors simplify way-finding. A nature-inspired interior palette features wood-slatted ceilings that evoke a sense of warmth and richness uncommon in New York public schools. Sculptures at the entrance and soaring library spaces honor the American artist Isamu Noguchi, once a Queens resident.

PS 330Q, a progressive paradigm shift from conventional public school typologies, was featured with other internationally acclaimed schools in Architectural Record’s “Schools of the 21st Century” issue (January 2015).

The firm’s thoughtful use of materials, such as wood slats for the ceiling throughout these public areas, results in a warm environment with a unique sense of bonhomie for a New York City public school
Linda Lentz Architectural Record

Recognition

  • The Society of American Registered Architects NY2018 Design Award of Excellence
  • Rethinking the Future2017 Award Institutional (Built) Award
  • AIA NY2016 Award of Merit
  • AIA Brooklyn + Queens 2016 Design Excellence Award
  • AIA NY State 2015 Excelsior Award, New Construction
  • Queens Chamber of Commerce 2014 Best Building Award

Select Publications & Interviews

  • Architectural Record | January 2018Active Design
  • Architectural Record | January 2015In Full View