Opening to students in Fall 2020, the Samuel Mills Sprole School (PS32K) underwent its first large-scale renovation and addition. The 1950s-era brick H-shaped building has been expanded to accommodate a growing population and replace outdated temporary classroom units (TCU). The new addition extends the central corridor spine eastward and allows each grade to cluster in distinct wings. Relocating the main entrance to Union Street connects the school administration and new cafeteria with direct access to the large playground where drop-offs and pick-ups take place.

The 3-story, 54,000 SF addition provides common spaces on the ground floor and classrooms on the upper floors. The student dining room and kitchen, library, and administration suite welcome students and guests at the ground floor. The two upper floors provide Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 1st grade classrooms as well as a roof terrace for the youngest students. New corridors terminate in glass block walls that create bright, pleasant common spaces.

The exterior brick was selected to match the existing building, with window and brick detailing selected to be modern and expressive. A new through-block playground with farming area, ball play area and climbing zone provide recreation for active and passive play. The new facility complies with the NYC School Construction Authority Green Schools Guide standards.

Client: New York City School Construction Authority

Structural Engineering: Ysrael A. Seinuk

Mechanical Engineering: Loring Consulting Engineers

Civil Engineering: Yu & Associates Engineers

Landscape Design: Abel Bainnson Butz

Lighting: Domingo Gonzalez Lighting Design

General Contractor: Citnalta Construction Corp. General Contractors

Kitchen Consultant: Romano Gatland

Elevator Consultant: AB Consulting

Cost Estimator: Nasco Construction Services

Expeditor: KM Associates of New York