This is the last of our three-part series meeting with some of the project team of the Advanced Math and Science Academy’s new academic building in Marlborough, MA. We spoke with Architect Clara Castro about her project role and approach working with the construction team.

Q: What was your role, and what did you do on the project?

I joined the project during the design phase and my role within the team was to redefine the selection of exterior materials and design of the interior architecture for the school. During construction, I oversaw the weekly site visits to meet with the contractor WT Rich to answer any questions and to ensure the design was executed as specified in the construction documents. During site visits, I would punch list for quality control noting discrepancies from the drawings that needed to be addressed. We had a great working relationship with WT Rich that resulted in a very successful project!

Q: How did your role affect your perspective on how the design was created then executed?

We met with the staff and students from AMSA throughout the design phase to hear their vision for the students and staff, which helped us convey their ideas into a design for the science building.

Q: What was your favorite part of the project?

Both design and construction are my favorite parts of the project. During the design phase, we get to put together a building that fits and conveys some of the elements of the site and school campus. In construction, everything we have on plans becomes a reality.

Q: How do weekly site visits and conversations with the construction team help keep the project on track?

During construction, issues arise almost on a weekly basis, and this is where the team works together to overcome obstacles. A good relationship with the contractor and ownership facilitates the resolution of the issue in question.

Q: What do you take into consideration when choosing materials in a school project like this?

We always look for materials that are environmentally friendly and in alignment with the client’s vision for the students and staff. This is a fun part of the project for the design team and the client as we explore different textures, colors, and shapes to create an exciting experience inside the building.

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Read more about AMSA in our Q&As with Regan Shields Ives and Grant Rocco.