Bringing a community together seems like a cliché statement, but that is not the case for the elementary school in Beardstown, Illinois. Graham & Hyde Architects played a pivotal role in updating an existing learning space and designing a new wing that brings the entire Gard school district #15 community together.
In 2021, Graham & Hyde embarked on a transformative renovation to breathe new life into the Beardstown, Illinois elementary school. A once-stodgy structure, built in 1959 as a high school with classroom additions made over time, evolved into a vibrant, modern learning space that meets the needs of students and educators.
The journey of bringing community together involved vision & planning. The design phase highlights crafting drawings to address immediate and future needs. Graham & Hyde participated in numerous consultations with administration & community leaders to ensure the renovation plan aligned with the educational goals and community expectations.
The renovation process started with renovating the existing school building. Outdated systems were replaced with modern, energy-efficient alternatives. The school received a complete upgrade with cutting-edge HVAC for optimal climate control, electrical, updated bathrooms, sprinklers, security solutions, & fire alarms. We didn’t forget about the interiors! Vibrant colors, ergonomic furniture, & updated finishes were designed to create a welcoming environment.
The goal was to blend modern educational needs with upgraded facilities while addressing a backlog of maintenance issues. This ambitious project not only revitalized the existing school but also added a new wing dedicated to the Pre-K program. The Pre-K addition features a spacious multi-purpose room designed for indoor activities, along with bright, expansive classrooms tailored for early childhood education. This thoughtful design ensures that young learners have the best possible start in a stimulating & supportive environment.
A Graham & Hyde architectural design unites communities & brings a collective campus of learning together that fosters goals of creating spaces & opportunities where the students at Gard Elementary can connect with one another, share experiences, & build lasting relationships.