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Project:	HILL ELEMENTARY SCHOOL Renovations and Library Addition Austin, Texas
Client:	Austin Independent School District Austin, Texas
Size:	5,111 GSF Renovation 4,020 GSF Addition
Cost:	$1,448,365 (Original Bid)
Date:	August 2001 Opening
Services:	SD, DD, CD, CA, IAQ COORDINATION
Alterations to Hill School, built in 1970, included: providing a new library; renovating the existing library as administration space; and gutting the old school offices for a multipurpose teaching space. The library was designed as an addition on the perimeter of the existing round school building, oriented to the heavily-wooded site. Exposed mechanical and structural systems reinforce the library’s curving space. The exterior of the addition carefully complements the original vocabulary and building style. In the midst of construction, significant mold problems were discovered in the existing school. Many issues surfaced to complicate the construction process, including expanded interior demolition, extended construction schedule, extensive replacement of existing casework, and careful re-evaluation of all design decisions affecting indoor air quality. Madison and Bess Althaus Graham were given an Award for "Extraordinary Commitment to the Hill Campus" at the grand re-opening ceremony on August 12, 2001.

The Hill Library makes use of natural lighting, open ceilings, and a cheerful palette of colors to enliven the space. As the main focal point of this National Blue Ribbon school, it was important to provide a flexible space to be used for a variety of learning experiences, as well as for meetings after-hours.

Because of Hill’s unique radial geometry, the library addition wraps around the existing classrooms. Even though it is connected to the central core of the school, it can be operated and secured independently from the existing main building.