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Braintree South Middle School
"The Nest"
Braintree, MassachusettsOverview
The focus on the site design included a large and safe separation between the drop-off zone and the building entry which also allowed space for low-impact stormwater management. Once established, the views from the cafeteria and the upper floor classrooms will be full of lush plant life.
The large courtyard in the center of the building allows daylighting to the surrounding classrooms and direct spill-out space from the media center. The courtyard was designed to provide multiple class-sized areas with flexible seating separated by large raised planting beds. The lighting at night accentuates the spaces making it a lively place to hold school events.
What's Important for a Middle School
Middle School is an intense transitional period for students as they progress from elementary school and then move through to high school. The intent of the courtyard design was to create a safe and nurturing learning environment inspired by the idea of a nest. The courtyard is surrounded by the more active and public uses including the cafetorium, media center and gymnasium. The courtyard is fully enclosed by the building, yet is large enough to accommodate up to 4 classes separated by seat walls and landscape berms planted with native trees, grasses and shrubs. These outdoor learning areas are dedicated to maker space and independent study.
Main Entrance Feature
A reality of today's environment is an increased emphasis on safety and security for students of all ages. In keeping with the natural surroundings and environmental stewardship, Traverse conceptualized a large rain garden to not only treat and infiltrate roof and pavement runoff, but also act as a natural barrier providing students, staff and visitors a naturalized landscape to view as they enter the building each day. Added amenities include boulder walls, lighting, an architectural canopy and a walkway that allows for a hydrologic connection for drainage.
