The Bronx High School for the Visual Arts Gymnasium Annex was designed and constructed as part of the Universal Physical Education Initiative, which addresses the needs of schools lacking dedicated physical-education facilities.
The new gymnasium annex features basketball and volleyball courts, bleachers, and a flexible folding-partition system, all designed to create a versatile space. Skylights and acoustic-wood paneling enhance natural lighting and sound quality, providing an optimal environment for physical activities. Supporting facilities include locker rooms, an instructor’s office, storage areas, and a mechanical mezzanine.
The primary materials used—red brick and gray concrete masonry units (CMU)—are accented by cast stone and red metal panels for architectural character.
Client
Completion Date
Summer 2021
Size
16,300 SF
Services Provided
New Building, Full Architectural Services
Project Type
K-12 Education
“It was important to us, and our client, that the design reflect the school’s identity. By carrying the red, grey, and white palette throughout the interior and exterior finishes we were able to create a unified aesthetic that supports school pride.”
– Michael Freedman, AIA, Principal, MDSA
Despite site constraints, including a steep sidewalk and the proximity of an adjacent MTA subway line, the design successfully incorporates an outdoor basketball court within a landscaped plaza, offering students both indoor and outdoor physical-activity options. Site improvements include new fencing, lighting, upgraded gas service, and comprehensive stormwater management measures. The annex is fully sprinklered and equipped with a standalone fire-alarm system that annunciates to the main high school building, while integrated data and video-surveillance connections provide enhanced security across the expanded school premises.
The project posed several challenges, particularly due to varying bedrock conditions, which required the use of both caisson and spread footing foundations to ensure structural stability. Precise foundation and site planning facilitated the preservation of an existing below-grade tunnel and retaining wall. The gymnasium structure uses load‑bearing CMU walls supporting a cast‑in‑place concrete mezzanine slab and lower roof slab. Long‑span steel joists support the main roof’s concrete‑filled acoustic‑metal deck, providing durability and noise control.
