This is the first post in a three-part series meeting with multiple architects reflecting on the completed Advanced Math and Science Academy new academic building project. The new 17,000 SF building provides technology-infused classrooms including chemistry, biology and physics labs. First up, we have Principal Regan Shields Ives to share her perspective on the project so far.

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

My role was Principal-in-Charge on the project. It was my job to oversee our whole design team to ensure that AMSA’s goals for the education of their students were reflected in the new building.  

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

This project required flexibility and creativity. Where we started with the design of the project was not where we ended up. Initially we were going to renovate an existing building on campus and design a new gym, but after our initial study and analysis, the client determined that a new academic building would better suit their needs. As architects we need to be nimble; sometimes the design process leads the client to explore alternative opportunities that redefine their project goals. Weare all on this journey together!

Q: What was your favorite part of the project?

My favorite part of the project was working with the client. We started the process by reviewing the design requirements and determined how we could meet their goals on a tight budget. We arrived at an efficient design concept that the whole team was very excited about. During the construction phase we watched the building rise out of the ground and evolve, looking more and more like the rendering we shared in the early design phase. Attending the ribbon cutting and watching the students – our favorite clients – explore the building with excitement was a joy to see.

Q: What is the best way to communicate with stakeholders and community members at the school to learn what they’re looking for?

We started with visioning sessions to understand the broad spectrum of what makes AMSA so special to the students, educators, and administration. We then worked with a focused client “working group” to determine the program and goals for the project. We showed sketches, renderings and precedent images to excite them about what could be possible.

Q: How do you think the students will feel about the new space?

Inspired! The new building allows them to further expand on the teaching and learning opportunities that makes AMSA one of the top schools in the state of Massachusetts. We are honored to have been part of this journey with the AMSA community.