Nichols School - Math Science and Technology Building

Project Description:
To keep pace with the constant changes in science and technology curriculum, the Nichols School decided to replace outdated facilities with a new, state of the art math and science building.  This 24,000 square foot, two-story structure contains 8 math classrooms, 7 science classrooms with labs, a 45 seat lecture hall, and the School's Information Technology Department.  The design focuses on environmental sustainability and flexibility for both teachers and students.

Siracuse Engineer's Role:
Complete structural engineering design for the facility including:

• Structural steel frame along a curved and irregular column grid
• Moment frame lateral force resisting system
• Sunsreen and passive solar shading support along curved front facade
• Two-way concrete basement floor slab to resist hydrostatic pressures from high groundwater table
• Structural support of curved limestone façade

Challenges:
Design an efficient structural framing system that allowed for the flexibility of space that the architect and owner desired.

Architect:
Architectural Resources
Contact: Peter Murad - Principal
505 Franklin Street
Buffalo, NY
(716) 883-5566
Website: www.archres.com

Owner:
Nichols School
Buffalo, New York

Project Value: $8.0 Million
Project Size: 24,000 square feet
Completion: 2010