Elementary School at Osborn Road, Rye, (N.Y.)

Abstract

A special feature of this school is that it is divided into separate, and well differentiated sections. Each of them houses the students of similar age and educational standard. Altogether there are 13 classrooms, distributed in three blocks. Six of them are devoted to primary education, six of them are for intermediate grade, and there is a kindergarten. The plan layout of the various buildings occupies approximately 3,500 ms². The block devoted to intermediate grade is located to the north of the primary school and the kindergarten, which are on the left and right, respectively. The space separating the buildings provides a pleasant covered playing zone, which is also suitable for holding lessons, and makes it possible to add later to the existing blocks. These are now connected with a central building, which houses the general services. The administrative office, the medical health service, the visitors room and the library are situated in the more quiet part of the school. The buildings, which are largely enclosed by large plate glass windows, give the impression of being part of the surrounding landscape. The walls are designed round a double and single modulus, used alternatively. Ordinary bricks, and precast concrete units have been used in the construction of the walls, making up various patterns involving right and obtuse angles. The roofs are horizontal and flat. Indoors frequent use is made of large glass partitions. A special feature is the library, with glass panels. Also interesting is the dining room, the gymnasiums aod the assembly hall, which is useful for lectures and theatre shows. Classrooms are gay and well illuminated. They all face outdoors and have individual desks. Internal partition walls and ceilings have accoustic insulation to achieve greater independence.