Independent Schools

Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Boston

Newton, MA

The Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Boston provides a balanced curriculum of secular and Judaic studies for approximately 600 students. Two separate facilities form the whole – a lower school for grades K-3 and an upper school for grades 4-8. DRA was engaged by the SSDS to assist in developing a master plan for the upper school and design / construction packages for the first phase and second phase of the plan. The existing upper school, housed in a former furniture warehouse, consists of a two-level academic wing, a one level business suite for both schools, a large indoor soccer facility and a preschool. The soccer facility and preschool spaces are leased by others and provide rental income for the SSDS.

The master plan included an expanded and renovated library at the heart of the school. This loft like space can accommodate a variety of special activities – individual study, small study groups in enclosed spaces – groups of up to 20 in open space for computer and other special instruction. Wireless technology and movable furniture throughout meet both current and future needs.

Other spaces that received special attention were Art, Music and After School, all considered as essential in the balanced curriculum. These spaces were expanded and renovated to better accommodate their individual needs.

DRA also developed an interiors master plan for the Lower School and prepared design / construction packages for renovations. Much of this work involved a new waiting and administration area as well as a new conference room, offices for the Head Master, Principal, marketing, admissions and a staff mail and supply area. We also updated two classrooms, the main corridor, and exterior campus signage. By inserting classroom entry nodes along the existing long uninterrupted corridor, we created more efficient way finding for the very young children who attend the school.

Colors and material were selected for their durability, satiability and cultural connection. We coordinated new furnishings with existing pieces to create a cohesive layout. The project was completed in 2009.