The Collaboratory

award winning renovation

London Grove, PA | 4,000 SF

Due to ongoing space constraints, Avon Grove Charter School had served its high school’s academic needs for many years without a dedicated library space.  Heckendorn Shiles Architects worked with the school to implement master-planned improvements across multiple campuses, thereby increasing available space at the State Road Campus, for the Collaboratory. 

The Collaboratory’s design focused on providing a 21st century flexible instructional space.  Functional uses were envisioned as part library, part media center, part presentation zone, part group work (collaboration) and part bistro.  The design took advantage of existing three dimensional connections/constraints.  A new extension of the roof, coupled with clerestory daylighting connects the bistro to the main instructional zone.  The primary courtyard and associated outdoor classroom are connected via an operable exterior glass partition. Collaboration is fostered via ample whiteboard surfaces, flexible furniture arrangements, varying spaces and acoustics, along with a presentation communicating stairway.  The space also includes a central administrative conference and Information Technology workroom.

Heckendorn Shiles Architects’ design has fulfilled a missing space use at State Road, allowing students to prepare for 21st century learning and working.

MERIT |

Outstanding Design, American School & University Educational Interiors Showcase 2021

“Avon Grove Charter School Unveils New Collaboratory.” Chester County Press