Mars looks at new interior designs for school project
As Mars Area School District’s elementary expansion project inches closer to its start, fresh interior designs are being considered for the updated building.
Kayla Benton, an interior designer with DRAW Collective, told Mars school board earlier this month the design for the proposed three-story classroom addition to the existing school incorporates elements from the existing building, while also bringing in new design features.
A main feature of the updated building will be a seating stair area in the main lobby of the addition. The seating stairs will serve as a queuing point during the arrival and dismissal of students. Previously, a seating stair connecting the ground and lower levels was included, but has since been removed.
A “donor wall” will also be installed across from the stairs, with panels that allow for attachable plaques that would list each donor.
Benton said each classroom space will be equipped with a smart board, three whiteboards, shelving and cabinets for storage, and cubbies. Each kindergarten classroom will have its own bathroom.
In addition to the new classroom wing, plans for inside the building include a new cafeteria and kitchen area, with the old space being converted into an expanded STEAM classroom and a suite to house the school’s guidance offices.
Mars school district’s website said the board is also considering including addition items, such as possibly enlarging the planned kitchen, renovating the school’s existing administrative and nurse’s office, and the replacement of HVAC controls throughout the building.
Construction is expected to begin in May 2025 once final designs are completed and approved. Construction is expected to continue through the Summer of 2026, with most of the work occurring during the summer months.
The elementary school project is expected to cost about $24 million.
