Design of Community Charter School of Paterson Wins Top Award

Design Ideas Group Architecture + Planning, LLC has received a Citation of Excellence for outstanding educational facility design in the 2009 edition of Learning By Design, the premier annual guide that showcases innovative school and university design and construction projects. Recognized for its construction and renovation of Community Charter School of Paterson, Design Ideas Group received one of only 14 Citation of Excellence Awards in this year’s competition, which drew more than 110 entries.

Judges praised the school as “an exemplary model of adaptive-use building” and “an exciting place to be a student.” The exterior envelope of this former industrial building has been retained and original materials, such as concrete, steel, and brick were integrated into the design.

“Working with the architecture of the existing building, they’ve created a very elegant and somewhat modern solution with a lot of transparency,” judges said. “The school is full of daylight and draws from a wonderful, vibrant color pallet.”

Community Charter School of Paterson was founded by NJCDC in 2008. NJCDC President Bob Guarasci congratulates Design Ideas Group on this award. “We are delighted that Design Ideas Group has been recognized for their work here in Paterson. Community Charter School of Paterson is a testament to what can be achieved when you combine creative thinking with a passion for improving children’s educational experience.”

To learn more, view the following press release and article.