December 7, 2023
Beachwood Schools hosted a community input session on December 5 to gather feedback on the design and construction of the new Bryden and Hilltop Elementary Schools. The $65 million project, approved by voters in May 2023, is slated for construction starting in spring 2024.
Ryan Schmit from ThenDesign Architecture presented preliminary plans that highlighted a balance between practicality, community needs, and innovative design. The contemporary aesthetics with a mix of brick and glass complement the wooded natural surroundings on each site. Hilltop will cascade up a slope on the back of the site, and Bryden will feature courtyards for outdoor learning and play. View the conceptual plans and renderings.
Designs for both schools place the library at the heart of the buildings, fostering a culture where enjoying literature and seeking information are incorporated throughout students’ daily routines. The libraries, along with other larger spaces, will also serve as venues for public meetings and exhibitions. Enhanced security features and separate entrances for buses and car traffic were incorporated into the plans to ensure smooth drop-off and pick-up procedures.
Participants praised the architectural harmony with existing buildings in the District. They also highlighted the importance of incorporating sustainable elements, strategic playground placement, and flexible access points for parking during events.
The new elementary schools will be constructed simultaneously, with doors opening to students in January 2026. “Over the past several months, the design team and our administrators have worked incredibly hard to shorten the construction timeline and minimize the disruption to our staff and students,” said Board of Education President Megan Walsh in a message to the school community. She added that “none of our students will be displaced during construction.”
Construction will be overseen by the Akron-based Hammond Construction. At Tuesday’s meeting, the company’s owner Bill Schurman provided an overview of the construction process and safety measures. Physical barriers, clear signage, and separate access routes for construction vehicles and the community will be implemented to ensure the safety of students and staff. Clear, consistent communication will be a priority throughout construction.
“School personnel and our construction team will be in close communication at all times throughout this construction,” said Mr. Schurman. The company will meet with neighbors prior to construction to address their concerns and provide updates. There are also plans to engage students by providing them with opportunities to meet with the construction team, learn about the equipment, and ask questions.
“Most young children love construction. They gravitate to it,” he said, adding that observing the construction process for their new schools can “be a wonderful asset” for real-world learning.
Feedback from residents will continue to shape the design and functionality of the new schools. The architects will present further updates to the Board of Education on December 11, and the District will continue seeking community feedback through a facilities design survey open until December 12.
Ms. Walsh encouraged community involvement, saying, “This is an exciting time for our community as we envision what is possible for our youngest learners and elementary staff.”