KG+D collaborated with Planet Smile Partners/Dentistry for Children to transform the empty building that formerly housed the Elephant’s Trunk clothing store on East Main Street in Mount Kisco into a pediatric dentist’s office. The ground floor consists of a lobby and reception area and a space where children in the waiting room can play. Exam rooms are on the second floor and a lounge, office space, a conference room, storage, and mechanicals are on the third level.
Author Archives: Ashley Higgins
KG+D Project Wins Excelsior Award
KG+D is proud to announce that the Middletown High School Learning Commons + Café Renovation project was honored with the American Institute of Architects New York State Chapter (AIANYS) Excelsior Award of Distinction in Public Architecture. The AIANYS Excelsior Awards highlights the best in publicly funded buildings, outdoor areas, and public art across New York State and the professionals who support and advocate for them.
The Middletown High School Learning Commons and Café project developed an addition to house a Next-Gen Media Center and renovated a former library into a centralized food service café and informal learning center.
The Media Center supports changes in the instructional curriculum and creates a community space. The lower level of the Media Center addition features a fully equipped professional level video production studio with a classroom-sized control room for video production design classes. Exteriorly, the addition features a green roof and the curvilinear design of wraps around the drop off loop. The Café, which was fitted into the former library spaces, supports the after-school meal program provided to students working in the Innovation Labs.
Overall, the project leveraged the district’s opportunity to create the infrastructure required for interdisciplinary learning communities and a school-wide neighborhood learning environment. Congratulations to the Enlarged City School District of Middletown and the Middletown community!
Dutchess BOCES Celebrates New “One Campus”
Matt Metzger, Dutchess BOCES School Business Official and KG+D Architects’ Susan D. Davidson – Director of Interior Design, Russell Davidson, FAIA – President. Brian Mangan, AIA – Principal
Dutchess BOCES celebrated the completion of their new “One Campus” with a ribbon cutting, EXPO, and open houses. The new campus brings together all the district’s schools: Salt Point Center, Career and Technical Institute and Alternative High School – and their students and staff, along with administration. Together, the schools and staff provide students with academics, specialized career training and support for physical, occupational, speech and mental health needs to help them succeed.
Dutchess BOCES Superintendent Jason Schetelick with student representatives from the various BOCES programs.
“It’s wonderful to have all of our schools and programs on one campus and we are grateful to the 13 Dutchess County school districts for their unwavering support through a challenging construction period during the COVID pandemic,” said District Superintendent Jason B. Schetelick.
The new facility was conceived as a community asset with a state-of-the-art conference center available to all component Districts and community organizations. Paired renovations of the Career & Technical Institute addressed aging facilities and were planned to maximize space utilization during the day and evening programming opportunities for the Adult Learning Institute. This project was combined with a separate Energy Performance Project.
Following the ceremony, the buildings were open for tours during which students showcased some of their work and staff were able to talk about their programs and services. Other students were in the Media Center/Library, showing off their musical abilities while others had their artwork on display in the halls. The large conference center hosted a job fair for students and members of the public.
Topping Off of Yonkers Public Schools’ Justice Sonia Sotomayor Community School
Yonkers’ Mayor Mike Spano and KG+D Architects President, Russell A. Davidson, FAIA
The City of Yonkers and Yonkers Public Schools held a Topping Off Ceremony celebrating the last beam being set in place on the new Justice Sonia Sotomayor Community School (JSSCS), with Mayor Mike Spano, Yonkers School Superintendent Edwin M. Quezada, and Board of Education President Rev. Steve Lopez among those attending.
The JSSCS will be the first new school in the City of Yonkers in over 20 years and is designed with many sustainable features including no carbon-based fuel use for heating and cooling, photovoltaic panels, and green roofs. The new 95,000sf community school will house grades Pre-K through 8th grade and include spaces for art science, special projects, dual language curriculum, and computer science. The school will be a community facility with the physical education wing and a community health clinic designed to function as a stand-alone community resource after school and on the weekends.
The final steel beam for the Justice Sonia Sotomayor Community School being hoisted into place.
“This school will become the heart of this neighborhood and will be accessible not only for educational enrichment but also be the benefit of all the people that live here and everyone in Yonkers,” Spano said. “We are even more fortunate for the opportunity to dedicate this school in recognition for the positive change Justice Sotomayor represents to our district and our students.”
More:
Sotomayor School in Yonkers Topped Off
Yonkers Gets a New School After 20 Years
KG+D Named AIA NYS Firm of the Year
KG+D Architects, PC has been named the Firm of the Year by the American Institute of Architects New York State Chapter (AIANYS).
The AIA New York State Firm Award was established in 2005 to recognize notable achievements in design, community service, education, and service to the profession and the AIA by an architectural firm in New York State for a period of at least 10 years. KG+D is the first firm to receive this award that does not have an office in New York City.
Over an almost 90-year history, KG+D and its predecessor firms have maintained a foundation of community which begins within our firm, extends to the profession, and out through our community of the Hudson Valley and Fairfield County region.
Our primary interest has always been to create the places you learn, work, play, govern, worship, and socialize. We are proud to have developed a legacy of projects, built in collaboration with our community members and on the foundation of trusted relationships, that have had a longstanding impact.
We are honored to be recognized as Firm of the Year and would like to thank our clients and partners for trusting KG+D with your projects. We look forward to another 90 years of creating engaging, sustainable, and inspiring structures and spaces together!
More:
Award Ceremony
Mount Kisco Architects Behind Landmarks Named ‘Firm of the Year’
Tuckahoe UFSD Passes Capital Project Referendum
Congratulations to the Tuckahoe Union Free School District on the passing of their Capital Bond Referendum. KG+D looks forward to continuing to collaborate with the district and the community to renovate the Cottle Elementary School Cafeteria and addresses key infrastructure projects. Congratulations to the Tuckahoe community!
Pound Ridge Fire Department Passes Capital Bond
Congratulations to the Pound Ridge Fire Department on the passing of their Bond Referendum! KG+D looks forward to collaborating with the Fire District and the community to create an updated, expanded, and safer firehouse. Congratulations to the Pound Ridge community!
The Ursuline School Receives AIA WHV Design Award
KG+D is honored to be recognized by the AIA WHV Chapter with a Citation Award for our project with The Ursuline School. The project was recognized for its positive aesthetic and social contribution to the built environment.
Our team partnered with The Ursuline School to create a new front to a complex of buildings that reflected the quality of the educational experience being offered within. The design solution created active learning spaces and community gathering areas that supported the school’s leading-edge teaching. The scope of work included the addition of a welcome center, admissions office, a student commons, a STEAM Center, and the development of a courtyard commons.
Congratulations to The Ursuline School! KG+D is proud to have been your partner on this important project.
Croton Harmon UFSD Passes Capital Project Referendum
Congratulations to the Croton Harmon Union Free School District on the passing of their Capital Bond Referendum. KG+D looks forward to continuing to collaborate with the district and the community to addresses current infrastructure-related items, preserves the integrity of school buildings and property, and create student learning spaces that allow for collaboration, creativity, and future-driven teaching and learning. Congratulations to the Croton Harmon community and the Tigers of today and tomorrow!
Chappaqua Central School District Passes Capital Bond Referendum
Congratulations to the Chappaqua Central School District on the passing of their Capital Bond Referendum #1. KG+D looks forward to collaborating with the district and the community to implement a variety of infrastructure improvement projects that include roof replacements, air conditioning of gyms and cafeterias and security improvements. Congratulations to the Chappaqua community!
Tuckahoe UFSD Celebrates Opening of New William E. Cottle Turf Field
The Tuckahoe UFSD celebrated the opening of the new William E. Cottle turf field with a jubilant ribbon-cutting ceremony. The District and the community sought to create a space that would benefit the school and the entire school community. Cottle students will be able to play on the field at recess, and all of the District’s sports teams will have the opportunity to practice on the field. The school community can also enjoy the walking path for a leisurely stroll or some more vigorous walking exercise. Congratulations to the Tuckahoe UFSD!
Orange Ulster BOCES Passes Capital Bond Referendum
Congratulations to Orange Ulster BOCES on the passing of their capital bond referendum! KG+D looks forward to collaborating with OUB and the communities you serve to complete key infrastructure upgrades, develop additional instructional spaces, and renovate existing spaces to meet 21st Century Learning standards. These projects will allow OUB to better prepare students for college, careers, and life. Congratulations!
Katonah Lewisboro School District Passes Capital Bond Referendum
Congratulations to the Katonah Lewisboro School District on the passing of their capital bond referendum. KG+D looks forward to collaborating with the district and the community to implement a variety of projects that will address teaching and learning environments, sustainability, and security.
Indian Mountain School Celebrates their new Centennial Field and Field House
The Indian Mountain School celebrated their Centennial Year with a ribbon cutting for their new Centennial Field House. KG+D is proud to be a small part of those 100 years and honored to be your partner in the development of the new Centennial Field and Field House.
KG+D Projects Recognized by Learning by Design
Chappaqua CSD Opens New Sustainability Research Center
The Chappaqua Central School District opened its new Sustainability Research Center at Horace Greeley High School. At the public-school level, the Center is the first of its kind in the region: a free-standing, 2,000sf, climate-controlled, multi-zoned, glass research laboratory. The SRC offers all the tools necessary for students to conduct biological and ecological research year-round and provides students the opportunity to explore the impact of climate change on our global community. KG+D is proud to have partnered with the Chappaqua CSD to bring this facility, which had its origins grown in a classroom closet turned hydroponic lab, to life for the students of the Chappaqua community.
KG+D Art Gallery
KG+D hosted their first Employee Art Exhibit which showcased artwork by our distinctly talented staff members. Artwork in all forms of media was welcomed and included painting, sketching, photography, pottery, sculpture, collage and even stone building! The group enjoyed viewing the artistic talents of our fellow teammates and discussing the unique pieces and the individual creative processes.
Ground Breaking: Justice Sonia Sotomayor Community School
Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano, Yonkers Board of Education, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Edwin M. Quezada along with local and state officials officially broke ground on the Yonkers Public School District’s new Justice Sonia Sotomayor Community School. To be dedicated to Supreme Court Justice Sotomayor, the new school will serve 675 students from Pre-Kindergarten to 8th grade and the local community.
Designed as a community school, the Justice School will feature multi-functional spaces that will be accessible evenings and weekends without the need to open the entire school building. Special amenities include a multi-purpose gymnasium and meeting room with stage; a full-sized basketball court and locker rooms; a cafeteria and meeting room with full kitchen; and a health suite with space for two exam rooms and a dental exam room.
“The Justice School is the first of its kind in our District and will be a model moving forward as we continue to rebuild our schools,” said Mayor Spano. “Our local schools are the heart of our neighborhoods and should be made accessible not only for educational enrichment, but also for the benefit of the families who live in the area. We are fortunate for the opportunity to dedicate a new school in recognition of the positive change Justice Sotomayor represents to our students and District.”
KG+D Receives Two Design Awards from the WHV AIA
KG+D is proud to have had two projects recognized at the AIA WHV 2021 Design Awards Program. We believe this award truly honors the communities that supported these dynamic projects. The Ossining Children’s Center a new 28,000sf, 3-story, purpose-built childcare facility was recognized with an Honor Award. The Wilton Family Y whose renovation included reconstruction of the central core of the building and addition a second story health/wellness center, was recognized with a Citation Award. Congratulations to the Ossining Children Center and Wilton Family Y for championing award winning design in your communities.
Inaugural KG+D Day of Service
An inaugural KG+D Day of Service! The KG+D team volunteered our time to give back to our local communities. We volunteered at the Boys and Girls Club of Northern Westchester to build shelving and organize a storage shed, paint picnic tables and benches, and complete landscaping at their main entrance. We received donations from Sherman Williams in Mount Kisco, Rosedale Nurseries and Ladle of Love. Thank you to our team members for your hard work and thank you to our local businesses for your support!
KG+D Receives Three Design Award from WHV AIA
KG+D is honored to have had three projects recognized by the AIA WHV 2019 Design Awards Program which was held at Le Chateau, a KG+D project and former award recipient. The firm was awarded Special Mention for Excellence in Historic Preservation for our work with SUNY Purchase College, a Citation Award for our planning work for a new Golf Learning Center + Driving Range and an Honor Award for our work with Scarsdale Public Schools. We are honored to have been a part of these award-winning partnerships!
Pelham UFSD Opens the New Hutchinson Elementary School
The KG+D team is proud to have collaborated with the Pelham Union Free School District and the Pelham community to develop this new next generation elementary school.
The 68,0000sf community Hutchinson Elementary School has a central learning commons and MakerSpace surrounded by two floors of flexible classroom space with break out “front porch” space and adjacent small collaboration “pods” that extend learning and collaboration beyond the classroom. The design incorporated playful colors, light fixtures, acoustic panels and recessed nooks to inspire and relate to the young students that will occupy the building. The learning commons, gym and cafeteria are configured together in order to allow for community access after school hours and during the summer without compromising the security of the classroom areas. Outdoor spaces include a kindergarten play area, student garden and outdoor dining and gathering space. On the site of the former elementary school are new athletic fields and a play space.
The building was designed to be equivalent to LEED Silver Standards.
Putnam Valley CSD Opens New Health and Wellness Center
Congratulations to the Putnam Valley Central School District on the opening of their new Health and Wellness Center at Putnam Valley High School. KG+D is proud to be a part of the team that actualized the 14,000sf flexible learning space that includes (6) collaborative workstations and an indoor turf field. The facility will be used be used by the athletic and academic departments support the District’s goal of providing programs that balance all aspect of learning.
Greenwich Public Schools Breaks Ground on Cardinal Stadium Project
Congratulations to Greenwich Public Schools for breaking ground yesterday on the new bleacher system for Cardinal Stadium.
Board of Education member Joe Kelly described the existing bleachers as an ‘old friend’ and spoke with excitement about a ‘new friend’ on the horizon. KG+D is proud to be a part of bringing the Greenwich community a ‘new friend’ for many years to come.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor Community School
KG+D in collaboration with Yonkers Public Schools has designed a new 95,000sf community school, the Justice Sonia Sotomayor Community School. The building, which is currently under construction, will house grades Pre-K through 8th grade and include spaces for art science, special projects, dual language curriculum, and computer science. The physical education wing, which includes a gym and stage, is designed to function as a stand-alone community center after school and on the weekends. The nurse’s office has been specifically enlarged and located near a separate entrance so it can function as a community health clinic after school and on the weekends.
Wolf Conservation Center
KG+D originally started working with the Wolf Conservation Center to develop a detailed Master Plan for campus additions and alterations. Collaboratively, we developed schematic design options for a new visitor’s center, hillside amphitheater, addition to the caretaker’s house and a future maintenance barn. The Master Plan has also developed design solutions for increased parking, improved vehicular and bus traffic and the addition of camping platforms. The overall goal of the project is to improve the visitor experience and better serve the patrons and school districts that utilize the center’s facilities. After a couple of unsuccessful attempts by other firms to execute the new visitor center, KG+D was brought back on to redesign the project and get it back on budget. It is currently moving forward and in the approvals process.
Hutchinson Elementary School
Following a two-year planning process that explored options for renovation vs. replacement of the Hutchinson Elementary School, the District and the community elected to develop a new next generation elementary school.
Westchester County, Merestead Mansion
The completed restoration work included slate tile roof and copper Yankee gutter replacement as well as flat seam zinc coated roof repair, all painted wood trim, exterior window and door restoration, balcony balustrade restoration, brick veneer and limestone cleaning and restoration, and terracotta tile patio replacement. The project also included stormwater management around perimeter of the former residence. Design work to restore the interior including floor/wall/ceiling interior finishes as well as mechanical, electrical and fire protection completed for future restoration. Collaborated with Westchester County Parks, DPW, and HPAC.
Park Place Parking Garage
Park Place Parking Garage is designed as an 800 car fully automated parking structure at a regional transportation hub.
The Premier Collection, LLC
KG+D planned and designed this new sales and services facility for The Premier Collection/BMW and provided services to outfit two temporary facilities including the company’s Bedford Sales Center and Mount Kisco Service Center. The project included a 12,000sf showroom, 12,000sf corporate offices and 28,000sf service space.
Wilder & Balter
Barile Gallagher Associates
KG+D collaborated with BGA on the adaptive reuse of a former Pizza Hut into a multi-use facility that includes office space on the second floor and a restaurant space, Southern Table, on the first floor. The office space includes open floor plan, conference rooms, kitchen and lounge space and balcony seating. The building also utilizes super-insulated envelope, large north-facing windows for daylighting and views, LED lighting, radiant floors, high-efficiency VRF HVAC, and a single sloped south facing roof with a solar array.
Town of Bedford, Bedford Hills Community House
Following a comprehensive facilities assessment process, KG+D collaborated with the Bedford Hills Community House to complete various capital improvement projects throughout the center. Projects include the addition of an elevator, HVAC improvements, window, doors and roof replacement, site improvements, flooring replacements, new lighting, kitchen and bathroom renovations, renovate conference room, replace stairs and complete electrical system upgrade. The project goal is to assist the Town of Bedford in continuing to maintain and restore the property and facility to allow it to continue to be a distinctive part of the Bedford Hills community.
Nice-Pak Inc. Corporate Headquarters
The goal of the Nice-Pak project was to modernize their corporate headquarters and to translate their innovative approach for manufacturing into the built environment by maximizing natural light, highlighting sustainability and health, and seeking ways to marry their brand and mission within their office space. The project scope renovated key spaces in a contemporary, sophisticated way that created a visually compelling and comfortable work environment for Nice-Pak’s employees and visitors.
Horace Greeley High School, Sustainability Research Center
KG+D worked with the Chappaqua Central School District to develop a Sustainability Research Center on the Horace Greeley High School campus. At the public-school level, the Center is the first of its kind in the region: a free-standing, 2,000sf, climate controlled, multi-zoned, glass research laboratory. The SRC offers all the tools necessary for students to conduct biological and ecological research year-round and provides students the opportunity to explore the impact of climate change.
The Ursuline School
The goal of The Ursuline School project was to create a new front to a complex of buildings that reflected the quality of the educationalvexperience being offered within. The 1960’s wing provided an outdated and inappropriate first impression of this high performing school. It was also critical to provide an accessible gathering space for the arrival and departure of students.
The design solution created active learning spaces and community gathering areas that supported the school’s leading-edge teaching. The scope of work included the addition of a welcome center, admissions office, a student commons, a STEAM Center, and the development of a courtyard commons.
Nyack High School, Global Learning Commons
KG+D collaborated with Nyack Union Free School District to redesign their high school library into a Global Learning Commons. The redesign created a central hub that is more purposefully aligned with the instructional programming and facilitates the appropriate use of technology.
Cottle Elementary School
KG+D has collaborated with the Tuckahoe Union Free School District to develop district-wide phased capital improvement projects. Projects for Cottle Elementary school include a classroom addition, cafeteria renovation/expansion, library renovation, STEAM classroom construction, security upgrades, gymnasium renovations and athletic field upgrades.
Putnam Valley High School, Health & Wellness Center
The Putnam Valley Central School District’s Health and Wellness Center was designed to support and enable active learning opportunities as well as meet the needs of student-athletes and community programs. The Center, the first of its kind in the region, includes a 140×80 turf athletic field with a perimeter area for walking/jogging, a netting system to divide the spaces, batting cages, and an area for digital instruction including wall mounted tables and Kinesiology Wall.
Protected: Brewster Yards
Middletown High School, Learning Center + Cafe
The Middletown High School Learning Center project included an addition to house a Next-Gen Media Center and the renovation of the former Library into a food service Café.
KG+D Architects Expands Firm Leadership
KG+D Architects, PC is proud to announce the elevation of Sarah Weissman Dirsa, AIA LEED AP, BD+C, SEED, Brian Mangan, AIA and Travis Schnell, AIA to Principals of the firm. These talented individuals have and will continue to play a vital role in the firm’s commitment to providing excellent design services and delivering impactful projects within our local communities. Sarah, Brian and Travis will join Walter Hauser, AIA – Principal, Erik Kaeyer, AIA – Vice President and Russell Davidson, FAIA – President in the planning and management of firm operations. Their promotions support the evolution of the next generation of firm leadership. Additionally, the promotion of Sarah Weissman Dirsa marks an important milestone as she is named the first female Principal of KG+D.
Sarah Weissman Dirsa, AIA, LEED AP, BD+C, SEED of Mount Kisco, NY joined KG+D in 2015 as a Project Manager. As an Associate and Associate Principal, Sarah took on a leading role in advancing the firm’s 21st Century educational facility design expertise and expanding the breadth of our corporate office portfolio. Her leadership in some of KG+D’s key projects include the development of the new Pelham UFSD Hutchinson Elementary School as well as award-winning additions and renovations to Brewster CSD’s JFK Elementary School. Sarah has also developed dynamic and collaborative workspaces for Caremount Medical, Chappaqua Crossing and Nice-Pak Products. Sarah was the recipient of a 2015 Young Architects Award from the National component of the American Institute of Architects. Sarah recently represented the firm as an educational facilities design expert for a national program entitled, Re-Imagine America’s Schools where she participated in design workshops to create pilot projects for educational facilities. Sarah earned her Masters in Architecture and Masters in Urban Design degrees from Washington University and a Bachelors of Arts in English from Binghamton University.
Brian O. Mangan, AIA of Briarcliff, NY joined KG+D in 2008 as an Intern Architect and held positions as an Associate and Associate Principal. Brian has led the firm’s work with several local BOCES including the development of a new Alternative High School and the renovation of the Career & Technical Institute at the Salt Point Campus for Dutchess BOCES as well as the adaptive re-use of the former Arden Hill Hospital into a new campus for Orange-Ulster BOCES. Brian’s commitment to design excellence is clear through his contribution and leadership for several of the firm’s award-winning projects including the historical preservation and expansion of the Bronxville UFSD’s 1929 auditorium, a Community Room addition for the Eagle Hill School and transformative renovations to Scarsdale High School that included the addition of a Learning Commons, Design Lab and Fitness Center. Brian’s design and project management skills have also been applied to projects for the Wilton Family Y, Greenwich Public Schools and the Bedford Hills Community House. Brian earned a Bachelor of Architecture from Pennsylvania State.
Travis S. Schnell, AIA of Carmel, NY joined KG+D in 2006 as an Intern Architect and held positions as an Associate and Associate Principal. Travis’ multifaceted experience encompasses a wide range of community centric facilities from religious institutions to recreational clubs from educational facilities to nature centers. Travis is currently leading the development of a sustainable new educational center for the Wolf Conservation Center and a new fieldhouse for the Indian Mountain School. Travis has lent his technical and design expertise and leadership to several of the firm’s award-winning projects that encompassed the complete transformation of existing facilities including the Great Neck Public Library, Shorehaven Golf Club and Rippowam Cisqua School Upper Campus. Travis’ experience also includes the development of the new Ossining Children’s Center, renovations to the Brooklawn Country Club’s main clubhouse and dynamic cafeteria renovations for Darien High School. When he is not working, Travis volunteers with the Jolly Rovers, a Non-Profit trail building organization that specializes in technical stonework. Travis earned a Bachelor of Architecture from Pennsylvania State.
KG+D is proud to recognize these team members who have shaped and supported the firm over their tenures and who will continue to play key leadership roles in both our firm’s long-term growth and present success.
Sarah W. Dirsa
Sarah W. Dirsa
AIA, LEED AP, NOMA Principal
Her leadership in some of KG+D’s key projects include the development of the new Pelham UFSD Hutchinson Elementary School as well as award-winning additions and renovations to Brewster CSD’s JFK Elementary School. Sarah has also developed dynamic and collaborative workspaces for Caremount Medical, Chappaqua Crossing, and Nice-Pak Products. Sarah was the recipient of a 2015 Young Architects Award from the National component of the American Institute of Architects. Sarah recently represented the firm as an educational facilities design expert for a national program entitled Reimagine America’s Schools where she participated in design workshops to create pilot projects for educational facilities.
Prior to joining KG+D Sarah served as the first ever Chair of Social Responsibility for HOK, leading the firm’s social outreach efforts across 24 locations and 1,800 employees. In this role Sarah was a core member of the pro bono design team for the William Jefferson Clinton Children’s Center, a replacement orphanage facility in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti that targeted LEED Platinum Certification.
Brian O. Mangan
Brian O. Mangan
AIA, Principal
Brian’s commitment to design excellence is clear through his contribution and leadership for several of the firm’s award-winning projects including the historical preservation and expansion of the Bronxville UFSD’s 1929 auditorium, a Community Room addition for the Eagle Hill School and transformative renovations to Scarsdale High School that included the addition of a Learning Commons, Design Lab and Fitness Center. Brian’s design and project management skills have also been applied to projects for the Wilton Family Y,
Greenwich Public Schools and the Bedford Hills Community House.
Travis S. Schnell
Travis S. Schnell
AIA, Principal
Travis is currently leading the development of a sustainable new educational pavilion for the Wolf Conservation Center and a new fieldhouse for the Indian Mountain School. Travis has lent his technical and design expertise along with enthusiastic leadership to several of the firm’s award-winning projects, all of which involved the complete re-envisioning of existing facilities resulting in the transformation of the Rippowam Cisqua School, Shorehaven Golf Club and the Great Neck Public Library. Travis’ experience also includes masterplan work for the Teatown Lake Reservation Center where he helped the organization imagine how a new visitor center can be incorporated into their historic bucolic structures. Recently he complete work on the new Ossining Children’s Center, bringing to reality a dream of the 120 year old community institution.
When he is not working, Travis has spent the last 10 years volunteering with the Jolly Rovers, a Non-Profit trail building organization that specializes in regional technical stonework, keeping him grounded to the local community and the outdoors.
Greenwich Public Schools, Cardinal Stadium
KG+D collaborated with Greenwich Public Schools on additions and renovations to Greenwich High School’s Cardinal Stadium. The first phase of the project includes the addition of a new bleacher system with a team room, athletic training space, restroom facilities, snack bar, outdoor seating area, press box as well as a new entry kiosk. The second phase includes the development of new tennis courts, additional parking and visitors’ bleachers and building.
Town of Cortlandt, Montrose + Verplanck Planning
KG+D collaborated with the Town of Cortlandt to develop conceptual design options for the redevelopment of the downtown Hamlet of Montrose and the potential development at Quarry Park in the Hamlet of Verplanck. Both studies have been used to effectively communicate the Town’s vision and build community support through a detailed planning process and exceptional visual graphics.
Town of Harrison, Sollazzo Recreation Center
KG+D is currently collaborating with the Town of Harrison on the planning, design and development of a replacement recreation center. The new center will be approximately 42,000sf and feature basketball court space for two games to occur simultaneously, a general multi-purpose room with support pantry, a recreation game room, an arts and crafts room and a computer room. Additional spaces include a fitness center, locker rooms and office space. There will be parking options onsite, under the building and offsite.
Indian Mountain School, Field House
KG+D is currently working with Indian Mountain School to develop a new athletic center. The new field house is being designed to LEED standards and includes indoor courts, a fitness room, training room, multi-purpose room adventure club, locker rooms and equipment cage. The first phase of the project will create the new field house with a “front porch” spectator viewing area between the field house and competition field. The second phase will encompass the development of the fitness room and training room and a potential third phase will address potentially expansions including a community room, café space, squash courts and athletic facilities offices.
KG+D Announces Team Promotions
KG+D Architects, PC is proud to announce the elevation of five team members to leadership roles in the firm. Sarah Weissman Dirsa, AIA, Brian Mangan, AIA and Travis Schnell, AIA have all been elevated to Associate Principals. They will now be part of the firm’s leadership structure alongside Susan Davidson, Associate Principal, Walter Hauser, AIA – Principal, Erik Kaeyer, AIA – Vice President and Russell Davidson, FAIA – President. Frederick Wells and Marco Mandra have been named Associates. Further supporting the firm’s next generation of leadership, these team members have consistently distinguished themselves through key contributions to major projects and supporting client relationships.
Sarah Weissman Dirsa, AIA, LEED AP, BD+C, SEED of Mount Kisco, NY joined KG+D in 2015 as a Project Manager, was promoted to Associate in 2018 and has been named Associate Principal. With a passion for sustainable spaces, Sarah has led the development of the new Pelham UFSD Hutchinson Elementary School as well as award-winning additions and renovations to Brewster CSD’s JFK Elementary School. Sarah has also developed dynamic and collaborative workspaces for Caremount Medical, Chappaqua Crossing and Nice-Pak Products. Sarah was the recipient of a 2015 Young Architects Award from the National component of the American Institute of Architects. Sarah recently represented the firm as an educational facilities design expert for a national program entitled, Re-Imagine America’s Schools where she participated in design workshops to create pilot projects in K-12 schools.
Brian O. Mangan, AIA of Briarcliff, NY joined KG+D in 2008 as an Intern Architect, was named Associate in 2015 and has been named Associate Principal. Brian’s commitment to design excellence is clear through his contribution and leadership for several of the firm’s award-winning projects including the historical preservation and expansion of the Bronxville UFSD’s 1929 auditorium, the adaptive re-use of the former Arden Hill Hospital into a new campus for Orange-Ulster BOCES, a Community Room addition for the Eagle Hill School and transformative renovations to Scarsdale High School that included the addition of a Learning Commons, Design Lab and Fitness Center. Brian’s design skills and project management also was applied to projects for the Wilton Family Y, Greenwich Public Schools, Bedford Hills Community House and Dutchess BOCES.
Travis S. Schnell, AIA of Carmel, NY joined KG+D in 2006 as an Intern Architect, was named Associate in 2013 and has been named Associate Principal. Travis’ experience encompasses a wide range of community centric facilities from religions institutions to recreational clubs from educational facilities to nature centers. Travis has lent his technical and design expertise and leadership to several of the firm’s award-winning projects that involved the complete transformation of existing facilities including the Great Neck Public Library, Shorehaven Golf Club and Rippowam Cisqua School Upper Campus. Travis’ experience also includes the development of a new Ossining Children’s Center, renovations to the Brooklawn Country Club’s main clubhouse and dynamic cafeteria renovations for Darien High School.
Marco Mandra, AIA of Brewster, NY joined KG+D and became licensed in New York State in 2019. As part of the KG+D team, Marco has significantly contributed to the development of new facilities for the Ossining Children’s Center and Dutchess BOCES Salt Point Campus. Marco has also been a key team member involved in the adaptive reuse of the former IBM Campus into an independent school campus.
Frederick P. Wells, RLA of Hopewell Junction, NY joined KG+D in 2019 as a landscape architect and planner and has been named Associate. Fred has over 35 years of landscape design and planning experience in the Hudson Valley Region. As part of the KG+D team, Fred has led the Educational Facilities Plan Update for Yonkers Public Schools as well as collaborating with Yonkers Public schools on the development of a new school. Fred’s landscape design and planning expertise is also being utilized on major projects for Orange Ulster BOCES, Dutchess BOCES and Greenwich Public Schools.
KG+D is proud to recognize these team members who have shaped and supported the firm over their tenures and will each prove to be a significant part of its future bringing renewed vitality and innovation to the firm leadership.
Edgewood Elementary School
KG+D collaborated with the Scarsdale Union Free School District to develop a 21st Century library for the Edgewood Elementary School. The project created a new library with various spaces for collaborative study and learning. The main desk is positioned at the center of the space with sight lines to two large, open library spaces and an adjacent technology lab. Traditional stacks intermingle with varied height and flexible furniture, soft seating and a welcoming reading nook. The technology lab offers opportunity for hands on learning and making.
Eastchester High School
The Eastchester High School project upgraded and expanded key instructional spaces to meet the academic demands of a 21st Century Education while accommodating a significant increase in enrollment. In order to address both of the 1927 High Schools’ challenges, the design solution sought to create Collegiate quality social and student support space while also creating collaborative, forward-thinking Next Generation learning environments.
Dutchess BOCES, Alternative High School @ Salt Point Campus
A 69,000sf Alternative High School will create a permanent and suitable home for a significantly underserved county-wide student body. The programs currently located at the BETA rental site will be relocated and consolidated to the Salt Point Campus. The new facility is conceived as a community asset with a state-of-the-art conference center available to all component Districts and community organizations. Paired renovations of the Career & Technical Institute will address aging facilities and have been planned to maximize space utilization during the day and evening programming opportunities for the Adult Learning Institute. This project is paired with a separate Energy Performance Project.
Groundbreaking: Ossining Children’s Center
The Ossining Children’s Center held a groundbreaking ceremony on June 24, 2019 marking the beginning of construction on the new Rebecca and Arthur Samberg Building at 32 State Street in Ossining, NY. As the first childcare facility in the region and serving the community for 125 years since 1895, the new facility will allow the Ossining Children’s Center to meet the growing demand for childcare and preschool programs within a single unified facility.
The Ossining Children’s Center program is currently housed in two buildings on South Highland Avenue as well as rented space at a nearby church. The center’s ability to meet the needs of the community has been challenged by the limitations of its current facilities.
The new 27,000sf childcare and education center will be a transformative asset for the Ossining community. It is thoughtfully oriented on the 2.5-acre site to optimize the views of the Hudson River. The Center will include nine classrooms, five toddler and infant rooms, three outdoor play areas, a junior turf athletic field, staff and administrative offices, a multi-purpose room, a conference room and kitchen. The design solution blends traditional and contemporary approaches that creates a modern, progressive and nurturing learning environment while allowing the new building to fit within the aesthetic of the adjacent “cottage-like” office buildings on State Street.
“KG+D is proud to partner with the Ossining Children’s Center to complete this dynamic new childcare and educational facility,” said Erik A. Kaeyer, Vice President of KG+D Architects. “The new Rebecca and Arthur Samberg Building was designed to support and accommodate the Ossining Children’s Center’s excellent programming and to allow the Center to effectively serve more of the families in the Ossining community for another 125 years.”
The construction will commence immediately with the project slated to be complete by September 2020.
Darien High School Cafeteria
KG+D’s collaboration with Darien High School began with a comprehensive study that explored options for both the expansion and re-imagination of the cafeteria in order to effectively maximize space and seating. The renovated and expanded cafeteria is open and light-filled and looks onto the high school athletic fields. The school’s mascot, The Blue Wave, is featured on an acoustic paneled wall that separates the cafeteria and a connecting corridor. There are various options for dining including counter height bars and seating. A a break-out lounge space utilizes flexible, soft seating and white boards to facilitate informal learning and collaboration.
Groundbreaking: Tuckahoe UFSD Cottle Elementary School
The Tuckahoe Union Free School District held a groundbreaking ceremony on June 27, 2019 marking the beginning of construction for additions and renovations to the William E. Cottle Elementary School. The project includes a second floor and security vestibule addition as well as field and infrastructure upgrades.
The 9,973sf second floor addition adds 6 classrooms and a teacher’s conference room addressing overcrowding and a projected growing enrollment. The new addition also features a Maker Space and the corridor utilizes the opportunity to extend learning beyond the classroom with collaboration “pods,” built in benches and a gathering area with flexible furniture adjacent to one of the new connecting stairwells.
A new 1,548sf security vestibule and security office with increased visibility, will be added at the main entry adjacent to the principal’s office. The project will also address critical infrastructure projects throughout the building.
The Cottle Elementary School project is part of a larger bond referendum that also includes the replacement of the turf athletic field and various infrastructure projects at the High School/Middle School.
“KG+D is proud to partner with the Tuckahoe Union Free School District to complete these important projects,” said Russell Davidson, FAIA President of KG+D Architects, “The new addition will provide next generation learning spaces for a growing student body, enhance school security and address important infrastructure needs.”
The construction will commence immediately with the project slated to be complete by Summer 2020.
Groundbreaking: The Ursuline School
The Ursuline School, an independent Catholic college preparatory school for girls in New Rochelle, NY, held a groundbreaking ceremony on June 20, 2019 marking the beginning of the first phase of their Innovation Campaign. The goal of the campaign, which slogan is Building on the Tradition of Innovation #TUSTimeIsNow, is to build active learning spaces and community gathering areas so that the school’s leading-edge teaching is matched with outstanding facilities.
The 18-month construction project follows an extensive master planning process that explored multiple design options for building 21st Century learning environments, improving generally campus functionality and enhancing the overall campus security. The project will add a new Lobby, Innovation Hub, High-Tech Conference Room and Student Commons.
The new 2,370sf Lobby will create an iconic entry and a larger gathering space and facilitate in an easier drop-off and pick-up for students. A security booth will enhance student safety and a new admissions office area, Ann Clemente Admissions Suite, will provide a fresh face to prospective and future students. The Lobby will also include more functional administration offices, a bookstore and three conference rooms for student and faculty use.
The new Lobby and the Innovation Hub will frame the inner courtyard and mimic the curvature of the existing landscaping, wrapping the courtyard with a glass front. Not only will the Innovation Hub, a 2,070sf “makerspace,” support the school’s robotics, engineering and computer science programming, the new space will allow students across the curriculum to combine technology with hands-on constructing. The Innovation Hub will be staffed with a STEAM educator and equipped with cutting-edge equipment and capabilities.
Adjacent to the Innovation Hub, a 780sf, 40 seat, high-tech conference room will function as a seminar-style classroom, meeting and rehearsal space. The space will be equipped with leading edge technology and modern furnishings. The space is designed to help prepare Ursuline students for college and the workplace.
The new Student Commons, Christina Jun Murphy Commons, will be a 1650sf bright and open 130-seat modern and comfortable space for eating, doing homework and spending time with friends. The added cafeteria space will be a walk-through space on the other side of the corridor from the existing cafeteria.
“KG+D is proud to partner with The Ursuline School to complete this important project,” said Russell Davidson, FAIA President of KG+D Architects, “The new addition will transform the front of the school and make the school’s exterior match the sophisticated learning on the interior.”
The Innovation Hub is planned to be the first space completed for January 2020 with the entire build complete by December 2020.
Groundbreaking: Hutchinson Elementary School
The Pelham Union Free School District held a groundbreaking ceremony on June 21, 2019 marking the beginning of construction for the replacement Hutchinson Elementary School. Following a two-year planning process that explored options for renovation vs. replacement, the District and the community elected to develop a next generation elementary school.
The design solution is a balance between a contemporary and traditional approach that creates a modern and progressive learning environment while allowing the new building to fit into the neighborhood and the aesthetic of the older buildings in the community. The 68,0000sf community school will have a central learning commons and MakerSpace surrounded by two floors of flexible classroom space with break out “front porch” space and adjacent small collaboration “pods” that extend learning and collaboration beyond the classroom.
The learning commons, gym and cafeteria are configured together in order to allow for community access after school hours and during the summer without compromising the security of the classroom areas. A single main entry located at the circulation loop and adjacent to the main office will have a secure vestibule and a dedicated security booth.
Outdoor spaces include a kindergarten play area, student garden and outdoor dining and gathering space. Following the construction of the new elementary school, athletic fields and a play space will be completed on the site of the former elementary school.
The building has also been designed to LEED Silver Standards and will utilize natural light, LED lighting, a green roof and efficient water and heating systems.
“KG+D is proud to partner with the Pelham Union Free School District to fulfill the promise made to the community,” said Russell Davidson, FAIA President of KG+D Architects, “We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to collaborate on the development of a 21st Century building in a District committed to 21st Century learning.”
The work immediately commencing will include necessary site work which will continue into the fall of 2019 with construction of the building itself anticipated in winter 2019-20 with targeted completion and opening for September 2022.
KG+D Project Wins AIA’s Excelsior Award
KG+D is proud to announce that the Middletown High School Innovation Labs project was honored with the AIANYS Excelsior Award of Distinction in Public Architecture. The AIANYS Excelsior Awards celebrate design and professional excellence in publicly funded buildings in New York State.
KG+D was proud to partner with the Middletown Enlarged City School District to develop these dynamic new learning environments that provide a range of advanced and practical education spaces that allow Middletown students to obtain a competitive edge in the increasingly competitive global marketplace. The Next Generation spaces function as community hubs for next generation learning and collaboration; they are student-centered, and faculty powered and enable community learning, relationship building and the collective development of life-long learning and teamwork skills.
Designing a Safer School
The American Institute of Architects and Wired Brand Lab explored the new Sandy Hook Elementary School and the power of passive security. As a practitioner for over 30 years in New York state, firm President Russell A. Davidson, FAIA, notes that architects are key players in creating safer school environments.
Read the full article here.
“In order to create a safer school, you have to think holistically about a school — and no one is better situated to do that than an architect.”
Russell A. Davidson FAIA, President
KG+D Project Recognized by Learning by Design
The Brewster Central School District’s JFK Elementary School renovation and addition project was cited as an Outstanding Project by Learning by Design magazine.
The design team collaborated with the Brewster Central School District to complete key renovation and addition projects that transformed the JFK Elementary School into a Next Generation school. The project included a six-classroom addition, a library and cafeteria expansion and the renovation of the auditorium and roundhouse learning spaces.
The project was recognized for the innovative use of the existing roundhouse structure as well as the new connecting classroom addition. The jury also noted the development of collaborative spaces, fun lighting, ceiling treatments, built-ins, sliding boards and color.
See the full article.
Learn more about this project.
KG+D Promotes, Expands + Grows its Expertise
KG+D is growing its expertise with the addition of several new talents. As part of the firm’s commitment to providing clients with the highest and most comprehensive level of services, KG+D has added six professionals to their team:
Jacob Eisenberg, Lauren Irons, Marco Mandra, Jennifer Martabano, Eva Nardone and Frederick Wells, RLA.
The firm now has a team of 31 comprising its full-service architectural, interior design, landscape architecture and planning platform.
The addition of team member Frederick P. Wells, RLA adds landscape architecture and planning to the firm’s portfolio of in-house services. Fred has over 35 years of landscape design and planning experience in the Hudson Valley Region. Fred’s experience includes land planning and environmental assessment and extensive knowledge of the regulatory requirements and environmental review procedures and the SEQRA and NEPA review processes.
Jacob Eisenberg, Lauren Irons, Marco Mandra and Eva Nardone join the architectural/technical team and Jennifer Martabano joins the interior design team. The addition of these qualified professionals ensures that KG+D can provide their clients with a diversified set of resources and capabilities.
“Hiring employees with a wide variety of expertise, reflects our firm’s commitment to building a strong and dynamic team and increasing our ability to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients,” said Russell A. Davidson, FAIA President. “We are pleased to welcome our newest employees and we are excited about the future of the firm and our continued smart growth.”
KG+D is also pleased to announce that team members Andrew Allison and Genevieve Clarey have been named Associates of the firm. Andrew and Genevieve have continually demonstrated their ability to successfully manage complex projects and have provided outstanding service to KG+D’s clients.
Andrew Allison joined KG+D in 2016 as a Construction Administrator. Andrew earned a Bachelor of Architecture from City College of New York. As part of the KG+D team, Andrew has provided construction administration services for some of KG+D’s largest projects including projects for the Middletown Enlarged City School District, Chappaqua Central School District and Yonkers Public Schools.
Genevieve Clarey, RA joined KG+D in 2015 as a project architect. Genevieve earned a Bachelor of Architecture from Cornell University. As part of the KG+D team, Genevieve has managed projects for Trinity Pawling School and The Ursuline School and collaborated on projects for Greenwich Public Schools, Pelham Union Free School District and Yonkers Public Schools.
“It’s an exciting time at KG+D,” shares Russell A. Davidson, FAIA. “We are proud to recognize team members who have shaped and supported our firm and furthered KG+D’s reputation in the Lower Hudson Valley.”
Greenwich Academy, Dining Commons
KG+D collaborated with Greenwich Academy on the renovation of their Dining Commons into an open and light-filled space within the facilities’ existing footprint. With separate seating areas for the lower, middle, and upper school students, key spaces were reconfigured to provide better access, traffic flow, and sightlines. The café provides snacks in-between classes and booth seating and high-top tables create a drop in space for before and after school.
SUNY Purchase College, Physical Education Building
The 1973 Physical Education Building was designed by the campus master plan architect, Edward Larrabee Barnes. It had many masonry issues, an inaccessible main entrance, a failed roof and 200-foot-long ridge skylight. A completely re-designed main entry sequence includes a new plaza, a channel glass vestibule, a curved balcony that connects the entry to the elevator. All of the windows and the ridge skylight were replaced utilizing brighter energy efficient framing and glazing. The most pressing needs were not only addressed but also the causes for the problems were diagnosed and solved within the original budget constraints. This results in a renewed facility that is brighter, more energy efficient and a healthier indoor environment.
SUNY Purchase College, Dining Hall
The 1972 Dining Hall was designed by Gwathmey & Siegel. The single glazed storefront and windows were replaced with high performance curtain wall and insulated glass incorporating more operable windows for natural ventilation and to reduce overheating. The design approach utilized “blind” mullions to conceal the multiple forms of new glazing so that the original appearance of monumental sheets of single pane glass was not altered. The addition of an exterior shading system also minimizes heat gain. An exterior stair and entry was rebuilt to the lower level to provide a more direct access route for students. This pathway is critical to re-position the building on the paths that students actually use rather than how the original design anticipated student movement.
Scarsdale High School, Learning Commons + Design Lab
The Learning Commons was developed in the original gymnasium and is comprised of the main floor and a new mezzanine level. A “learning stair” connects the two levels providing an easy connection and creating informal “stadium-like” seating for gathering and performance. On both levels, the main spaces are flanked by two glass-fronted small group spaces that can be used for conferences, group work, or small classes.
Scarsdale High School, Fitness Center
The overarching goal of the Scarsdale High School project was to maximize underutilized areas of the building in order to create modern fitness facilities supportive of the High School’s Next Generation student. The Fitness Center was relocated to a former storage room with large windows and direct access to the playing fields. The concept includes a central area with cardio equipment and a stretching and free weight area in addition to two distinct weight training stations. The space was designed to provide adequate year-round training for the full range of athletic teams and support the physical education curriculum, which emphasizes lifelong fitness.
Wilton Family YMCA
The Wilton Family YMCA has been a community resource since 1972. Over its almost 50-year history, the needs of the community evolved, and the Y’s physical space required a thoughtful plan for renovation and expansion that would effectively reflect and accommodate that evolution and growth. The design team collaborated with the Wilton Family Y to help them reimagine their existing facility.
The design solution reconstructed the central core of the building creating an addition that unites the gym, pools, and fitness areas. The addition includes a renovated and expanded lobby and reception area, a second story health/wellness center that includes an expanded fitness center, new and renovated early childhood classrooms, a new pool bubble for the outdoor 50M pool, and new administrative spaces. The project also incorporated circulation, parking and drop off improvements.
KG+D Receives Five Design Awards from AIA WHV
KG+D Architects received five design awards from the American Institute of Architects, Westchester Hudson Valley Chapter. The chapter works to achieve a more humane built environment and a higher standard of professionalism for architects throughout Westchester County and the Hudson Valley region of New York State. The firm’s awards included:
AIA WHV High Honor Award for their collaboration with the Trinity Pawling School on the new Smith Field House in Pawling, NY. The Smith Field House project involved an addition that joined multiple disconnected athletic facilities that created a central athletic hub on campus. At approximately 30,000sf, the field house is now the largest building on campus and it houses a gymnasium with two full basketball courts with upper level spectator seating, a half court with workout space, a new main entry and lobby space, a terrace gathering spaces and an Alumni and Athletic Hall of Fame Room.
AIA WHV High Honor Award for their collaboration with Rippowam Cisqua School, Upper School Campus in Bedford, NY. KG+D collaborated with The Rippowam Cisqua School to transform their Upper Campus into a next generation educational facility that respected the community’s architectural aesthetic. The project encompassed major additions including a new main entry, media center, dining hall, classroom addition, renovated science labs and art classrooms and an innovation lab that opens into a courtyard amphitheater. The additions mindfully married the past and future creating a “Bedford Barn” front elevation, while the interior expression is open, modern and forward-thinking.
AIA WHV Citation Award for their collaboration with Middletown Enlarged City School District on Middletown High School in Middletown, NY. The Middletown High School project developed a 10,000sf, technology infused, learning commons at the high school’s center in an underutilized interior courtyard. The “Next-Gen” learning space features a large, open innovation lab with a 16-panel viewing screen, digital labs, graphic arts classrooms, a fabrication lab and a lecture/presentation space. A second, 28,000sf addition, created a third-floor innovation lab with break out meeting and small group spaces, a new main entry sequence and connection to a new classroom wing. AIA WHV Citation Award for their collaboration with the Brewster Central School District on JFK Elementary School in Brewster, NY. KG+D collaborated with the Brewster CSD to complete key projects that transformed the JFK Elementary School into a Next Generation learning environment. The project included a six-classroom addition that created flexible classrooms, a library addition featuring a stepped reading area, an auditorium renovation that incorporated a moveable wall dividing classroom and theater space and the development of the IDEA Center, which features moveable furniture and bi-fold doors that open to an interior courtyard. AIA WHV Citation Award for their collaboration with Elegant Banquets on the renovation of Le Chateau in North Salem, NY. The Elegant Banquets project encompassed the renovation of the former Le Chateau restaurant into a banquet and catering hall for weddings and events. The project included an addition of a dining room and bar as well as renovations to pre-function spaces in the original building. The Tudor-style mansion was commissioned in 1907 by J.P. Morgan as a gift for Reverend William S. Rainsford. The project sought to preserve the history of the mansion while injecting a modern New York sensibility.
KG+D’s projects were recognized at the AIA WHV Design Awards on Thursday, October 25th, 2018 at the Eagle Hill School in Greenwich, CT. The event included a guided tour of the Eagle Hill School Community Room, which was designed by KG+D Vice President, Erik A. Kaeyer, and received a AIA WHV Honor Award in 2017.
Ribbon Cutting: Edgewood + Heathcote Elementary Schools
Scarsdale Union Free School District held ribbon cutting ceremonies on Wednesday, October 23rd, marking the opening of the Edgewood and Heathcote Elementary School projects.
The Edgewood Elementary School project included a new library and security conscious office and main entry. The new library features a cove stepped reading nook, pod seating, nesting tables, mobile bookcases and counter height workstations. Adjacent to the library are a workroom and technology room.
The Heathcote Elementary School project included the addition of a new multi-purpose room with adjacent small group instruction rooms and a new entry space. The new multi-purpose room accommodates a larger number of students for lunchtime and the new entryway provides a shielded space for student pick up/drop off as well as a separate and secure community point of entry.
KG+D is proud to have collaborated with the Scarsdale Union Free School District on these important projects for the elementary school community!
Read more. Edgewood Elementary School library addition time-lapse video. Heathcote Elementary School multi-purpose room time-lapse video.
KG+D Recognized by American School & University
Trinity Pawling School’s Smith Field House was selected for publication by American School & University in its 2018 Educational Interior Showcase which honors the Nation’s most outstanding learning environments.
The Smith Field House project, which was recognized as an Outstanding Design, developed an addition that joined multiple disconnected athletic facilities-including a gymnasium, wrestling pavilion, squash courts and ice rink-to create an essential athletic hub on campus.
At approximately 30,000sf, the Smith Field House is now the largest building on campus and it houses a gymnasium with two full basketball courts with upper level spectator seating, a half court with workout space, a distinctive main entry and lobby space and an Alumni and Athletic Hall of Fame Room with adjacent terrace space that will spotlight awards and school athletic memorabilia. The new field house features curved timber trusses and utilizes large clerestory windows that create a dramatic and light-filled space. The building not only serves as a state-of-the-art athletic facility but is also enjoyed daily as a student social center and gathering space.
See the Full Article. See more about this project.
KG+D Project Recognized by Learning by Design
The Rippowam Cisqua School Upper Campus renovation and addition project was cited as an Outstanding Project by Learning by Design magazine. KG+D Architects partnered with the Rippowam Cisqua School to transform their Upper Campus into a next generation educational facility that effectively supports the independent middle school’s immersive educational programming while remaining in keeping with the community’s “Bedford Barn” architectural tradition.
The project addressed this challenge by creating a front elevation that is reflective of the community’s 350-year barn aesthetic, while the interior expression is open, modern and forward-thinking. The project includes a new main entry, media center, dining hall, classroom wing and an innovation lab that opens to a courtyard amphitheater.
The project was recognized for its architectural and interior design and for having next generation benchmark type design and planning features.
See the full article. See more about this project.
Ribbon Cutting: Eastchester High School
The Eastchester Union Free School District held a ribbon cutting ceremony on Tuesday, October 9th to mark the grand opening of their recently completed High School renovation and expansion project. Voters approved an almost $27 million-dollar bond to expand the high school building in October of 2015 and construction began in June of 2017. KG+D collaborated with the District on the high school project which upgraded and expanded key instructional spaces to meet the academic demands of a 21st Century Education and accommodate a significant increase in enrollment.
A major challenge for the 1927 High School was an increase in student enrollment. As a result, the District created temporary classrooms in an old gymnasium and had to implement four lunch periods in order to serve lunch to the entire student body. To address this challenge, the design solution sought to create additional instructional space, while also creating collaborative, forward-thinking Next Generation learning environments. State-of-the-art STEM labs created designated space for progressive program courses and the cafeteria expansion maximized the opportunity to create a student lounge and learning commons.
“I am so proud of our community and I am so happy for our students, said Dr. Walter Moran, Superintendent of Eastchester Union Free School District, “that they finally have a facility commensurate with the level of achievement and learning that they deserve.”
The final phase of the project will revert temporary classrooms that were created in the gymnasium space over 15 years ago, back into gym space which will increase practice and game space for the District’s 25 athletic teams.
JFK Elementary School
The design team collaborated with the Brewster Central School District to complete key renovation and addition projects that transformed the JFK Elementary School into a Next Generation school. The project included a six-classroom addition, a library and cafeteria expansion and the renovation of the auditorium and roundhouse learning spaces.
KG+D President Testifies Before Federal Commission on School Safety
The managing principal and president of KG+D Architects, Russell A. Davidson, FAIA, testified before the Federal Commission on School Safety to advocate for school design strategies and legislation that will support safer schools. The federal commission roundtable was led by Homeland Security Secretary Kristjen M. Nielsen in Las Vegas, NV at the Miley Achievement Center, a secondary school recognized for providing specialized behavioral, social and emotional support for students.
Along with a security consultant and members of law enforcement, Davidson was one of four individuals invited to testify and the only architect on the panel. KG+D has worked with public and private schools throughout the region on projects ranging in size and scope including planning and implementing school security projects for many local districts including Yonkers, Greenwich, Katonah Lewisboro, Somers, Chappaqua, Tuckahoe and Pelham.
As a practitioner for over 30 years in New York state, which was reported to have on average the oldest school buildings in the country, Davidson notes that a real challenge is retrofitting older buildings to incorporate secure design solutions, “the minimum renovations required for reasonable safety is not easy, funding is not available, and the minimum improvements needed may not even be possible do to the configurations of these very old buildings. Retrofitting schools is a challenge, but I think it represents a social imperative that we cannot ignore.”
KG+D’s design approach seeks to balance vigilance and protection with the openness and inclusiveness that defines productive learning environments. A layered approach, that is customized to each situation and population, helps to detect, deter, delay and defend and make the sanctuary that education should represent harder to breach. Davidson notes that architects are part of the solution as are the design responses to creating school environments where students are connected and known to each other and have access to responsible adults and support staff.
The American Institute of Architects, of which Davidson was the 2016 President, launched legislative initiatives last week that outline the Institute’s commitment for improving school design policies, which includes a bipartisan effort on Capitol Hill focusing on two main goals. The first is to make architectural and design services for schools an allowable use of funds within existing federal grants. The second would establish a federal clearinghouse of resources on school design best practices for school officials, architects and other design professionals to keep them informed.
“While we know that design alone cannot eliminate the threat of violence, there is more we can do, not only to defend, but to deter,” said Davidson. “This is not an either-or proposition but a both-and approach as we seek to promote schools that are more secure, transparent, engaging and conducive to learning.”
Matthew Gallerani + Teresa S. May Named Associates
We are pleased to announce that team members Matthew Gallerani and Teresa S. May have been named Associates of the firm. Matt and Teresa have continually demonstrated their ability to successfully manage complex projects and have provided outstanding service to KG+D’s clients. Russell A. Davidson, President, Erik A. Kaeyer, Vice President and Walter P. Hauser, Principal are proud to recognize Matt and Teresa’s professional accomplishments and enthusiastically welcome them to their new leadership roles in the firm.
Matthew Gallerani, AIA of Stamford, CT joined KG+D in 2015 and became licensed in New York State in 2018. Matt earned his Masters in Architecture from Roger Williams University in 2013. As part of the KG+D team, Matt has used his passion for connecting people and belief in sustainable spaces on projects for the Middletown Enlarged City School District, Eastchester Union Free School District and Yale University.
Teresa S. May, AIA of Rye, NY joined KG+D in 2016 as a project architect. Her experience ranges from high end residential projects in Aspen, CO to mixed use residential development in Asbury Park, NJ and commercial property fit outs in New York City. Teresa earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Architectural Design from Parson’s School of Design in New York City. As part of the KG+D team, Teresa has managed projects for the Upper Westchester Muslim Society, Yonkers Public Library, and Yonkers Public Schools.
Matt and Teresa have contributed significantly to the firm’s growth and success and are an important part of its future. Their promotions reflect our firm’s commitment to building a strong and dynamic team, as well as our confidence in their continued ability to deliver the highest quality of service to our clients. We look forward to supporting their continued success at the firm in their new roles as Associates.
Eagle Hill School, Community Room
The objective of the new community room was to create a flexible gathering space, which replaced a limiting theater, with a space that could be utilized for the school’s morning meetings, assemblies and performances as well as indoor recess and athletic activities including gymnastics, karate and wrestling.
Middletown High School, Pool Facility
KG+D completed a renovation and rehabilitation of the Midddletown High School pool facility. The project included an assessment of the existing facilities and the development of a comprehensive report. The findings resulted in the replacement of pool systems including a new Chloramine Evacuator and Ultraviolet Filtration as well as a new HVAC system and pool boiler replacement. Additionally, updated finishes included the pool deck, pool basin, and diving boards.
Chappaqua Library
KG+D collaborated with the Chappaqua Library on an additions and renovations project. Additions include a new children’s area, a new teen activity center and cafe. The renovated spaces include the existing children’s area, office spaces, staff areas and restroom facilities. The new children’s area will utilize flexible furniture and have a computer zone, study spaces, a reading pod and direct access to a grass courtyard. The teen activity center is an open space lined with glass window walls and featuring flexible furniture for small and large group gathering. There is an adjacent café space as well as a small study/presentation/meeting room.
Middletown High School, Innovation Lab
The overarching goal for the Middletown High School project was to ‘build out the feeling of poverty’ and create a larger vision of a school that didn’t feel economically restrained. The project developed a 10,000sf, technology infused, learning commons at the high school’s center as well as a 28,000sf addition with a 1760sf innovation space, new entry sequence and connection to a new classroom wing.
Great Neck Public Library
The Great Neck Public Library main branch facility was transformed—generally within the footprint of the existing building—into a flexible 21st Century Library. The overall project goal for the renovation of the original 1970’s building was to create a more open, user friendly and inviting environment throughout the library, while utilizing views of Udall Pond. To accomplish this goal, the design solution relocated and reconfigured a number of library functions and spaces in order to better facilitate the library’s programming.
The initial phase of the design process explored several design solutions based on the detailed design program developed by the community based Building Advisory Committee. The selected solution reconfigured the main entry, created a larger and more accessible Community Room, converted space for books into areas for patrons, relocated and expanded the Children’s area and improved the buildings systems and infrastructure.
Shorehaven Golf Club
The Shorehaven Golf Club underwent a two-phased transformation encompassing a complete renovation of the main clubhouse and surrounding site, the pool house and the tennis pavilion. The project challenge was to update the Club’s facilities to better serve the existing members and attract new membership.
Maier, Markey & Justic LLP
KG+D is collaborating with MMJ on the test-fit, programming, design and implementation of their office relocation and fit out of 2 Lyon Place in White Plains. The project is in the construction documents phase.
Brewster CSD, Athletic Fields/Facilities
KG+D planned and designed a new synthetic turf field for Brewster Central School District including bleacher seating for 1,100 home spectators and 300 visitors, field lighting, score board, lacrosse netting and storm water retention system. A second phase of the project included the construction of a new concession stand that was designed to be a three-season building and includes restroom facilities, a space for athletic team/concession sales and an adjacent fenced in outdoor space for grilling.
Grand Opening: Great Neck Public Library
The Great Neck Public Library’s Main Branch officially opened to the public on October 30th after a major renovation of their main branch, generally working within the existing footprint, to support current services and emerging technology. The Great Neck Library Board president, Marietta DiCamillo, said about 600 people, including elected officials, employees and members of the public, attended Sunday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house.
“I have to tell you, it just feels wonderful,” DiCamillo said about the building’s opening. “All along our first and most important thought was providing the community with an excellent building with all new infrastructure and equipment.”
The project goals included: creating more meeting spaces and reading areas, developing an open and user-friendly environment, improving connections between levels of the building, increasing children’s spaces, consolidating staff and technical service areas and updating the building’s infrastructure to be more energy efficient.
Read More: Great Neck Record + The Island Now.
Norwalk Golf Venue Looks to Future Members
In a bid to refresh its appeal — particularly to younger member prospects and organizations considering event space — Shorehaven heads into the golf season’s fallow months with a rebuilt facility, the overhaul led by Mount Kisco, N.Y.-based KG+D Architects and the New Canaan-based landscape architect Wesley Stout Associates.
In addition to the main clubhouse and grounds, the renovations encompassed an enlarged pool pavilion with construction still underway on a new summer youth camp structure. The new facilities were designed in the New England Shingle Style of architecture, according to Erik Kaeyer, a Wilton resident who led the project as design principal and vice president with KG+D.
“Clubs regionally and nationally are seeing a decline in membership, so you are seeing a lot of clubs in the area start to (look) at their infrastructure, at to what they have to do to try and attract new members,” Kaeyer said. “We really wanted to bring the outside in — so big windows. … They wanted to make sure they maxed out on the opportunity (for people) to sit outside, take advantage of the views.”
Dwyer said the redesign is having its intended effect, with nine weddings and six golf outings booked for next year and inquiries coming in daily. For his part, Kaeyer says he will miss his visits to the club to work through the myriad construction challenges of the project, but maintains the members and by extension the city are a better place with a rebuilt Shorehaven along Long Island Sound.
“You look at this club five years ago, the outdoor seating and all that, and you look at it now and it’s an easy sell,” Kaeyer said.
Groundbreaking: Brewster Central School District
Brewster Central School District held a groundbreaking ceremony on September 1, 2016 marking the beginning of renovation and addition projects that are to be completed at JFK Elementary School, CV Star Intermediate School and Brewster High School. The projects are a part of a $40 million dollar bond referendum that was passed in December 2014 of which the overall program is currently under budget and ahead of schedule..
Following a series of capital improvement projects associated with the referendum—including roof repairs, asbestos removal and security upgrades—the larger projects are set to begin immediately. The projects being completed at Brewster High School include extensive locker room and weight room renovations, a reorganized and streamlined cafeteria servery and a flexible and innovative learning commons. CV Star Intermediate School will gain a new two-story four-classroom addition. JFK Elementary School will undergo multiple additions including a six classroom, library and cafeteria addition. Furthermore, the elementary school’s existing roundhouse building will feature a new terrace off the discovery and innovation center with bi-fold doors that open to an interior courtyard providing for indoor and outdoor learning spaces.
“KG+D is committed to our partnership with Brewster Central School District,” said Russell Davidson, FAIA President of KG+D Architects, “we are honored to have the opportunity to build upon our past success together while working toward the future goals that will allow the District to continue to provide flexible, innovative and student-center spaces.”
The various projects will be implemented in phases throughout the 2016-2017 school year and the new additions will be ready for use in September 2017.
KG+D Wins 914INC. Small Business Award
Photography: Toshi Tasaki
The KG+D team is proud to be among the 14 Westchester organizations to be recognized as part of 914INC 4th Annual Small Business Awards. KG+D was recognized in the General Excellence category. Our 32-person team is proud to be a part of the thriving small-business community in Westchester County and prouder to collaborate with numerous county educational facilities, municipalities, religious institutions and businesses organizations.
Read More.
Yonkers Public Schools Capacity Study
On Tuesday May 24, 2016 Mayor Mike Spano and Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Edwin M. Quezada held a press conference announcing the findings of a building capacity study completed by KG+D Architects, PC. The study revealed Yonkers’ 39 schools are overcapacity by 4,428 seats for its enrollment of 27,000 students, pre-kindergarten through grade 12. Due to the lack of adequate space in many schools, class sizes, specifically in elementary schools and special education services are below New York State Office of Facilities Planning standards.
“The numbers released today are alarming — it is evident that we are placing our young children, especially those with special needs, in substandard learning environments that are likely to worsen each year. KG+D’s study should serve as a wake-up call to our state leaders that now is the time to act to rebuild Yonkers schools.”– Mayor Spano
Bronxville Schools Auditorium Grand Opening
The Bronxville School celebrated the grand opening of its newly renovated auditorium on Wednesday, December 16, 2015. The celebration featured performances by members of the Bronxville High School Chorus, Orchestra and Band, as well as a special recognition of the PTA, Bronxville School Foundation and private donors who were instrumental in the success of the renovation project.
Originally built in 1922, the Bronxville School auditorium was urgently in need of reconfiguration and restoration. In spite of ongoing work to maintain the facility, by 2012 the auditorium was in a state of disrepair with missing seats, poor lighting, improper sightlines, and non-functional balcony that was no longer in use. Additionally, a 1960s renovation created a false proscenium over the original and closed in the tall windows on both sides of the auditorium. As a result, the renovated proscenium swallowed performance sound and the lack of natural light reduced the auditorium’s flexibility.
KG+D partnered with the Bronxville USFD to collaboratively restore the beauty and functionality of the original auditorium while incorporating 21st Century elements to create a multi-use space for the Bronxville community. The project goals included maximizing seating capacity and performance space, improving sightlines and the overall acoustics of the space and creating a separate space for public access.
The Bronxville Auditorium is a flexible, accessible and technologically advanced theater space that functions as the center of the Bronxville School Community and is an asset to the Village of Bronxville.
KG+D Project Wins AIANYS Excelsior Award
KG+D is proud to announce that the Bronxville Schools Auditorium was honored with the AIANYS Excelsior Award of Distinction in Public Architecture. The AIANYS Excelsior Awards celebrate design and professional excellence in publicly funded buildings in New York State. KG+D was proud to partner with the Bronxville Union Free School District on this dynamic community gathering and performance space:
“KG+D is honored to be recognized by AIANYS for our work with Bronxville Union Free School District on the renovated auditorium,” said Russell A. Davidson, FAIA President of KG+D Architects, PC. “As the majority of our firm’s work is based in publicly funded projects, our team takes pride in partnering with organizations and institutions to provide beautiful spaces for the community. The historically mindful, flexible, community focused, auditorium that developed through a true collaboration with Bronxville Union Free School is a direct reflection of the Bronxville community.” -Russell A. Davidson
Grinton I. Will Library
KG+D collaborated with the Yonkers’ Will Library to restore “in-kind” their mid-century modern facility designed by Eli Rabineau, while keeping the existing aesthetic, improving daylighting and meeting current code requirements. The project replaced failed concrete cladding, replaced outdated window systems, replaced degraded exterior shading systems and replaced related exterior elements including guard rails, doors and signage. The process for the replacement of the exterior shading system involved an extensive solar shading study – vertical sunshades were utilized to allow in more light and protect against ultraviolet rays. The second phase of the project replace the façade’s cement panels with terra-cotta panels that offered insultation and a vapor barrier, which made a huge impact on the sustainability of the building and increased its energy efficiency. The re-envision façade not only upgrades the façade panels and curtain wall but allows for a refreshed appearance that visually re-energizes the building. In addition to the exterior renovations, KG+D is now working with the Will Library on various interior renovations including upgrades to their community room and computer labs.
Mount Kisco Architects Work to Make Schools Safer
While safety and security have always been an important part of school planning and design, the recent increase in violent school tragedies have renewed the sense of urgency and put safety at the forefront of conversations about school buildings. KG+D has worked with many educational facilities throughout the Lower Hudson Valley to address this critical issue and fortify schools without turning them into fortresses.
“Security in schools often comes down to finding the right balance between visibility and the ability to isolate a portion of the population,” said Russell Davidson, one of the firm’s principal architects. “Completely open plans with lots of glass are and completely closed buildings with no visual connections can be equally inappropriate. The ability to see what is going on and to be seen, behind a secure enclosure, by law enforcement can often lead to a safer environment. Of course this needs to be combined with the ability to find a safe refuge where you cannot be seen when there is an active threat. These are the reasons why security planning is an architectural design challenge often completed in active collaboration with building administrators and security specialists. Each solution is a unique approach that is tailored to the population and the specific building configuration.”
As school architects, our goal is to incorporate secure design solutions without detracting from the impression of the learning environment. The goal is to increase the time it takes to get into and out of buildings; the overall strategy to create delay and in turn create more time for administration to react and for first responders to arrive. While schools cannot be designed completely around aggressive intruders, they can incorporate secure design solutions that increase student and teacher safety.
Russell A. Davidson, Inaugurated as the 92nd President of the AIA
Russell A. Davidson, FAIA, Managing Principal + President of KG+D Architects was inaugurated as the 92nd President of the AIA during ceremonies held on December 4th, 2015 at the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. He succeeds the 91st President, Elizabeth Chu Richter, FAIA, in representing nearly 88,000 AIA members.
“Now is the time to move from good to great and to fully realize the potential of one of our country’s oldest professional associations,” said Davidson at his inauguration. “In an election year we will leverage the attention paid to the future of America to point out that architects, along with our partners in the design and construction industry, not only designed the places that define American cities towns and villages, but also are the leading edge of a major economic force.”
Davidson has held a multitude of elected positions within the AIA including serving as president of AIA Westchester + Hudson Valley in 1999 and president of AIA New York State in 2007. He joined the AIA National Board in 2009 and served as AIA Vice President from 2012-2013. Throughout his national leadership tenure, Davidson has maintained a special focus on government and public advocacy for architects and architecture.
Photo Credit: William Stewart Photography
Trinity Pawling School, Athletic Field + Tennis Courts
KG+D planned and designed a new 86,000sf synthetic turf field outfitted with a bleacher/pressbox combination and lighting for night games. The David N. Coratti Field replaced an unleveled natural grass field and was relocated to provide for a new West campus entry and ample athletic facility parking. The tennis center includes nine hard-surface courts, viewing areas and a gazebo encompassing storage areas and restroom facilities.
Trinity Pawling School, Faculty Housing
KG+D designed 10 units of faculty housing for Trinity Pawling School with a central green and commons. The objective of the new housing was to attract and retain talented faculty and staff. The new housing units include one large mult-family residence building known as “The Arches” and three single family homes. The physical design is in the tradition of the campus’ original aesthetic and the interior design blends traditional style with contemporary living.
Dobbs Ferry Middle/High School Cafeteria
Dobbs Ferry Union Free School District sought to transform their middle/high school cafeteria into an inviting cafeteria commons and create a resource for the Dobbs Ferry community. The reorganized and redesigned cafeteria features a more flexible configuration, utilizes natural light and the adjacent courtyard, created improved circulation and provided for more efficient kitchen and servery facilities.
Dobbs Ferry UFSD Athletic Field
KG+D completed a turf field replacement project as part of a larger capital project for Dobbs Ferry Union Free School District. These improvements included a replacement synthetic turf field with 5 sport inlays, new parking, scoreboard and bleacher system.
Guiding Eyes for the Blind, Canine Development Center
Built using green construction initiatives, the Canine Development Center’s 30-acre new and renovated campus includes a puppy training pavilion, new male and female kennels, open living areas, outdoor areas for off-leash exercise and a new veterinary hospital with state of the art equipment. The Center is utilized for breeding, birthing, socializing and screening dogs. The expansion nearly doubled the size of the original facilities, providing more teaching space for staff and volunteers to work together and have additional opportunities for orientation and training sessions.
Mount Kisco Architects Lead Education Innovation
KG+D was featured in an article by the Westchester Business Journal discussing some of our current collaborations with local school districts that are leading the way in educational facility design.
“As the flipped classroom permeates secondary education, the function of the school building is also changing. There are more flexible spaces more conducive to group work and small group instruction rather than lectures. It’s an exciting time in the school system full of significant change.”
-Russell Davidson
Read More: Westchester Business Journal