Daniels Run Elementary School
Fairfax, VA

 

Daniels Run Elementary School required the addition of 58,389 SF in order to combine the populations of two elementary schools. The school had a total of 40,285 SF on 13.5 acres of land, and an enrollment of 428 elementary students, and new additions and renovations accommodate a student population of 750 students with a core capacity of 950 students. Samaha is known for designing adaptable schools able to accommodate more students than are currently enrolled without causing the space to feel too large for the existing student body.

The major goal for this award winning design was to transform the existing school into a new facility with a new entrance and identity, while modernizing the existing instructional spaces and adding new areas supporting the educational goals of Fairfax City Schools. A new, enlarged main entrance creates an inviting front porch to the school, and a monumental stair added in the lobby enhances the connection between floors and improves circulation throughout the school. A two-story addition of classrooms containing support and core spaces that meet current educational standards increases the capacity of the school.

 

2003 CEFPI Southeast Region Architectural Design Award - Best in Category (Renovations/Additions)