Location: Jim Thorpe, PA
Description: Building Renovation & Expansion

After 42 years of operation, Carbon Career and Technical Institute found itself in need of significant facility improvement. This revitalization project expanded many program areas and provided additional work space, new equipment, dedicated theory rooms, and increased storage. The reorganization of existing spaces resulted in improved clustering of related programs and enhanced building security. The project also replaced Building Systems Infrastructure, which was original to the building.

The new addition exterior was carefully detailed to complement the existing building. Similar construction materials were employed to blend the new addition facades with the existing facades, while at the same time providing an updated look for the facility.

The bids came in under budget and the five sending School Districts approved construction of the project.

Location: Berwyn, PA
Description: Master Plan of Parish Facilities / Design of Phase One Project

After its Parochial School was closed in 2012, the Church of St. Monica was at a crossroad in its history. In order to position the Parish for future growth, how could it adaptively reuse the school and revitalize its other buildings? A long-term vision was needed – the Parish selected GKO Architects to prepare a comprehensive Master Plan of its Facilities.

To provide a forum for discussion and collaboration, the Architects hosted an interactive planning workshop for the Congregation. Utilizing planning materials prepared by GKO, Conceptual Master Plan ideas were created by nine different “teams” of Parishioners. After the initial interactive planning session, each team presented their Master Plan Concept(s) to the other Teams. This collaborative process ultimately led to the creation of a Comprehensive Master Plan which combined the best of the Congregation’s ideas with those of the Architects. This collaborative planning process has resulted in a carefully considered “Vision of the Future” for the Church of St. Monica. The Parish is currently involved in Fundraising for Phase One of its long-term vision.

Location: College Park, MD
Description: Adaptive Reuse of a former Public School

The University of Maryland, City of College Park, and School District of Prince George’s County came together to offer students an alternative school experience where Middle and High School students would have the opportunity to learn in a cyber-blended school environment. The program offers a personalized Internet-based curriculum which is delivered with the benefit of supplemental classroom instruction and face-to-face tutoring. The design concept included renovating a former public school building, which was located on the CPA site, and constructing a large addition to accommodate the school’s Main Secure Entry and Student “Team” Areas. This school was designed to serve 700 students in grades 6 to 12 and was planned to achieve a LEED Silver rating.

Ultimately, zoning variances were not granted to College Park Academy for this particular location. However, CPA engaged GKO Architects to design charter school facilities at several other locations in the town of College Park.

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Description: Renovation Project

Community Academy of Philadelphia is a K-12 Charter School located in Northeast Philadelphia. The school engaged GKO Architects to renovate an adjacent 10,000-square-foot restaurant building into educational spaces. The spatial needs of a restaurant are obviously quite different from the needs of an educational facility, and the school had a limited budget; therefore, GKO Architects maintained as many existing walls and window openings as possible while still meeting all functional requirements. Colors and materials used in the renovation complement the existing charter school and serve to create a “campus” feeling on the combined property.

Location: Multiple Pennsylvania Locations
Description: New Prototype Facility

GKO Architects developed a Prototype Building schematic design proposal for a Pennsylvania-based Cyber-Blended Charter School. This school provides on-line instruction to its students but also offers facilities for on-site instruction and support. The prototype building’s program of spaces was divided into 60% flexible office space for the on-line instructors, 25% program space for on-site instruction, and 15% support space including several lesson production studios. Three alternative design concepts were created to explore different planning approaches for the Prototype Facility. Consistent themes explored in the concepts include “openness” and provision of ample natural light; centralized security and facility access control; cafe-style environment in Lobby/Entry Area; simple “modular” construction methods to accommodate off-site fabrication of the building components; sustainable design initiatives; and flexible design approaches, which would be adaptable to different site locations.

Location: Doylestown, PA
Description: Feasibility and Design Study for Entrance Canopy / Façade Screen Wall

Delaware Valley University engaged GKO Architects to design a New Entrance Canopy and Facade Screen Wall to enhance the appearance a group of existing modular classrooms which are heavily used. We produced multiple design concepts and associated Preliminary Cost Estimates for each option.

Along with several new buildings planned for the future, this Screen Wall project was developed as part of the University’s effort to provide a refreshed look for the Campus.

Location: Hatfield, PA
Description: New Church Facility

Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, whose original building from 1913 had been modified to accommodate the Congregation’s educational spaces and Fellowship Hall, burned to the ground in January of 2011. After the fire, the only part of the facility left standing was a 1990s era brick Worship Space Wing which accommodated seating for 250 congregants and a small Administrative Office suite. GKO Architects was selected to prepare a Master Plan for the Church’s property and design a new structure to replace the program spaces destroyed by the fire. Due to its Street Frontage and critical location in the Borough of Hatfield, this project presented an important town planning opportunity. We worked closely with both the Congregation and the Borough to carefully shape the building so that it would fit with the Town’s unique context.

As a method for direct design collaboration with the congregation, the Architects hosted “Vision Day,” an interactive design workshop. In a two-hour period, conceptual design ideas were created by nine different “teams” of congregants. After the initial design session, each team presented their concept(s) to the other teams. This collaborative process ultimately led to the creation of a Hybrid Design Concept, which combined the best ideas of the Congregant Teams with those of the Architects.

Location: Stone Harbor, NJ
Description: Retreat Center for the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary

In the late 1930’s, one of the first buildings constructed in Stone Harbor, NJ, was a 3-story, 58,000 square foot, 250-bed Retreat Center and Convent for the Immaculate Heart of Mary Sisters. While the original building served the congregation for many decades, by the early 2000’s the facility had become obsolete and no longer functioned efficiently. GKO Architects was selected to design a new 2-story, 35,000 SF, 52- bed facility Retreat Center and Convent to replace the original. The new facility will feature both individual and dorm-type room accommodations, convent, 50-seat Chapel, multipurpose meeting space, and dining room. The building is arranged around an outdoor prayer garden which is anchored by a bell tower. There are many other outdoor spaces including a veranda, balconies, and a courtyard around which Stations of the Cross sculptures will be displayed.

Location: Kulpmont, PA
Description: Kulpmont Borough Municipal Complex

Kulpmont Borough invited GKO Architects to prepare a design and cost proposal for a new Facility. Kulpmont is a charming small town in Northumberland County, Pennsylvania. The program for the project included Administration Offices, Public Meeting Rooms, Police Department Offices, a large Storage Facility, and several pole buildings to accommodate the Public Works Department. Despite its small footprint, Kulpmont Borough Hall was designed to provide a strong, cost-effective, civic presence.

Location: Kulpmont, PA
Description: New Firehouse Banquet Center

GKO Architects designed a new Banquet Center Addition for Kulpmont Fire Company. The project began as a dream of the Fire Company to provide a large gathering place for community social events including banquets and weddings. Our firm worked closely with the building committee to develop an economical design that was appropriate to the small town community context of Kulpmont Borough.

Location: Jim Thorpe, PA
Description: Feasibility Study for New Carbon County Campus

Lehigh Carbon Community College (LCCC) operates several satellite campuses which serve Lehigh and Carbon Counties. A new Campus is being considered to provide increased service for the Carbon County community. Recognizing the potential benefits of a partnership with the Carbon Career and Technical Institute (CCTI), a facility previously designed by GKO Architects, we were asked to prepare a study to evaluate the potential of developing the new LCCC campus on the CCTI Site. While the proposed location for the new LCCC facility offers opportunities for dramatic views through the valley of Jim Thorpe, it also presents specific challenges of working with steep slopes, protruding bedrock, existing utility easements, and an existing residential access road.

GKO Architects worked closely with the Board of Trustees and the Administration of LCCC to prepare a comprehensive Feasibility and Schematic Design Study for the new campus. A simple and cost-effective Design Concept was proposed which included six general instructional spaces, a Fitness Center, two Computer Labs, a Science Lab, Administrative and Faculty Offices, a small Media Center, and several Student Work Areas. A Student Commons Area with indoor and outdoor seating serves as the social heart for the proposed community college campus.

Location: Lancaster County, PA
Description: Renovations to Three Campuses

Lancaster County Career & Technology Center (LCCTC) has three campuses throughout Lancaster County: Willow Street, Brownstown, and Mount Joy. All three facilities provide Career & Technical education for grades 9 through 12. LCCTC students are drawn from 16 surrounding school districts to attend this successful program.

The campuses were constructed in the late 1960s and received minor renovations in the 1990s. All three facilities were in need of revitalization to meet the needs of LCCTC’s current Educational Program. In addition, the building system infrastructures needed to be largely replaced as they were original to the 1960s era construction. The projects were phased and construction was completed over a three-year period.

Location: Abington Township / Philadelphia County
Description: Master Plan of Property / Phase One Construction

Medical Mission Sisters (MMS) is an order of Catholic Nuns dedicated to the medical health and spiritual well-being of people around the world. In discussing goals for the development of their 69-acre property, the Sisters asked GKO Architects to create a Master Plan which would continue to support their mission. After considering many options, the Sisters elected to partner with a Development team, including a Real Estate Developer and GKO Architects, to plan and construct a mixed-use complex dedicated to caring and healing. This complex, which is currently being planned, may include a senior care facility, tax-credited housing, and a reconfigured Administrative Office and Residential Center for the Medical Mission Sisters Order. As requested by the Sisters, the Team is planning the overall development to be respectful of the beautiful landscape, natural resources, and the local community.

One of the design options being explored for the New MMS Administrative and Residential Center would have a program that includes: Administrative Offices, Chapel, Senior Day-Care LIFE Center, and a three-story residential apartment block for the Sisters with a Lower Level parking garage. This facility will overlook and anchor the adjacent MMS Memorial Garden.

Location: Jamison, PA
Description: Complete Renovation & New Administration Addition

Middle Bucks Institute of Technology (MBIT) focuses on providing career development, advanced technical training, and pre-professional programs to students in grades 10 through 12. Working closely with the administrative staff at MBIT and the Joint Operating Committee (represents the sending School Districts), GKO Architects designed a revitalization plan for this 145,000-square-foot facility. As part of the renovations, the existing building infrastructure was completely replaced with energy-efficient systems, improvements were made to meet building code and accessibility requirements, and programs were analyzed and restructured for better functionality.

An addition was also constructed to expand the Administrative Offices and address security concerns. Facility security was also enhanced through the provision of a security check-point at the new main entrance. As a prominent feature and focal point on the exterior façade, the new entrance was highlighted with an extended canopy.

Location: Montgomery County, PA
Description: Proposal for New Municipal Building

A Borough in Montgomery County invited GKO Architects to submit a proposal for a New Municipal Building to be built on the grounds of their existing facility. As part of our response, we offered a detailed proposal which included two alternative design concepts, both of which addressed the Borough’s functional needs and also considered how the new facility could fit appropriately into its small town community context.

Location: Wallingford, PA
Description: New Addition & Renovations

Following a competitive selection process that included submittal of detailed design proposals, GKO Architects was commissioned by Wallingford-Swarthmore School District to transform Nether Providence Elementary School into a state-of-the-art facility. Our design concept included demolition of a wood-framed portion of the existing school, renovation of the remaining 40,000-square feet, and construction of a new 30,000-square-foot addition, with comprehensive alterations including a new secure main entrance, the school’s interior layout has been completely transformed. Our design concept for revitalization also included Energy-saving strategies that enabled the building to meet “Energy Star” certification standards.

As a cost control strategy, efforts were made to minimize site disturbance wherever possible. For example, the existing bus loop and visitor parking areas were maintained largely intact. New site construction elements included a stormwater management system, athletic fields, car loop, service drive, reserve parking area, and soft play areas.

Location: East Greenville, PA
Description: Addition, Renovations & New Elevator Lobby

New Goshenhoppen Church presented GKO Architects with a design challenge: design a building addition that would provide an appropriate “bridge” between the existing Traditional-style Church and the existing 1950s era Modern-style Education Wing. The challenge was further defined by the Congregation’s desire to provide a barrier-free route between the two existing buildings which had off-set floor elevations. The architects met the Challenge by allowing the beautiful Historic church to stylistically stand on its own. This design approach allowed the Church to remain the visual focal point of the Facility while providing a link that did not detract from either structure.

Location: New Hope, PA
Description: Additions and Renovation to the High School and Middle School

After preparing a comprehensive Feasibility Study for New Hope Solebury School District, GKO Architects designed significant Renovations and Additions to the High School and Middle School Buildings. The project included new mechanical, electrical, data, and security system infrastructure, renovation of the existing buildings, and several significant building additions which helped to reorganize this large complex.

Location: New London Township, PA
Description: New Utility Building

New London Township engaged GKO Architects to develop a design concept for their proposed New Utility Building which would meet functional requirements but also be context-sensitive. In response to the Township’s goal to complement the rural character of the area, GKO Architects developed a scheme which reduced the Building’s mass by burying it partially below grade. This approach helped reduce the visual impact of a building while still providing an interior height of 26 feet. The Building’s “Barn” massing and material selections also added to its rural quality.

Location: Bucks County, PA
Description: Proposal for a New Public Works Facility

A Township in rural Bucks County invited GKO Architects to submit a proposal for a New Public Works Facility to be built on the grounds of their existing Municipal Complex. As part of our response, we offered a detailed design proposal which addressed the Township’s functional needs, but also considered how the facility would fit appropriately into the local context. Given the nature of the noisy activities that commonly occur at a Public Works Facility, we proposed a solid masonry perimeter wall, which formed an inner “Working Courtyard,” and provided screening and acoustical isolation. As a visual connection with the existing Township Building, we proposed sloped standing seam metal roofing, stone and stucco wall materials, and ventilation cupolas on the roofs to give the Public Works Buildings a rural “barn-like” appearance.

Location: Lansdale, PA
Description: Building Renovation & Expansion

North Montco Technical Career Center (NMTCC) provides technically focused and career-specific education to students from grades 9 through 12. NMTCC Students come from five surrounding School Districts. Their existing building was constructed in 1967 and received a substantial addition in 1995; however, this addition only partially renovated the original building. GKO Architects was asked to evaluate the existing facility, and provide the required renovations and additions to meet the School’s advanced Educational Program standards.

The project scope included the construction of an addition to accommodate public interface and enhanced security; renovations to the Welding, Protective Services, Cosmetology, Culinary Arts, Electricity, and Visual Communications Programs, and upgrades to the existing Building Systems Infrastructure.

Location: Coatesville, PA
Description: Lobby & Narthex Expansion for Accessibility Improvements

Our Lady of the Rosary Church is situated on a steeply sloping site. As a result, the original church was planned with Upper and Lower floors which correspond to grades at opposite ends of the building. The Parish challenged GKO Architects to provide a barrier-free vertical circulation system to alleviate the accessibility issues posed by the multi-level design. To solve this problem, we proposed a circulation tower that includes an elevator, new stair, Lower Level entry lobby which is accessible to grade and an Upper Level Narthex / Gathering Space which is accessible via the new elevator. An exterior ramp at the Lower Level provides an accessible route to the lower level parking lot. These modifications have allowed congregants to enter the Church at either Level while having access to a barrier-free interior circulation route through the Facility.

Location: Plymouth Meeting, PA
Description: Renovation and Additions to Plymouth Whitemarsh High School

Following a thorough Feasibility Study, which included a detailed Cost-Benefit Analysis prepared by GKO Architects, Colonial School District engaged our firm to design a comprehensive revitalization of Plymouth Whitemarsh High School. Due to the age of the existing facility, substantial improvements were made to the building’s infrastructure and exterior envelope. The mechanical system was replaced resulting in significant energy savings, while also providing better air-quality through improved natural and mechanical ventilation. The existing window systems were removed and replaced with a new energy-efficient curtain wall system, which has vastly improved thermal resistance.

The primary Building Façade, which faces Germantown Avenue, has been refreshed by a number of enhancements including: a new Canopy at the Main Entrance; new windows; new masonry site retaining walls; new site and exterior building lighting; and other façade improvements. The façade and interior enhancements will knit together and stylistically bridge the original 1960s construction with an Instructional Wing Addition which was constructed in the mid-1990’s.

Location: Colonial School District, PA

Description: Gymnasium Addition

This publicly bid, state-of-the-art 38,000 SF Gymnasium facility for Plymouth Whitemarsh High School was conceived as a “flexible” arena for Sports Activities. With a massive folding wall that separates the Main Gym from the Auxiliary Gym, there are several court and bleacher configurations that can be arranged. This project also included new locker room facilities, a new lobby with concessions, and sports equipment storage areas. Translucent wall panels were utilized to provide non-glare natural light into the Gym areas. This building was completed ahead of schedule and under budget.

Location: Philadelphia, PA
Description: Master Plan

Presbyterian Historical Society’s (PHS) Facility, located in the Society Hill section of Philadelphia, had not received significant renovation since its original construction in the mid-1960s. GKO Architects was engaged to develop a Master Plan that would address a number of issues PHS was having with the internal layout. Alternative designs were prepared to reorganize and expand the facility in several construction phases. Security, Staff work areas, expansion of archival areas, building systems / infrastructure, and reading room areas for patron use were some of the issues that were dealt with in the design alternatives explored. Phase One, a renovation of the MEP System, is currently underway.

Location: Delaware County, PA
Description: Renovation & Addition

GKO Architects designed and documented this house addition as a pro-bono project for a family in need. The structural engineer for the project, Gary Talbot of GTA Inc., also provided services at no charge.

After hearing about the family’s desperate situation, a group of contractors led by Reynolds Construction Management is volunteering their time to construct this modest house addition.

Location: Quakertown, PA
Description: Renovations for New District Administration Offices

The Quakertown School District decided to centralize all administration within a single building. With this goal and appropriate stewardship in mind, the District purchased an existing commercial building for adaptive reuse. The District selected GKO Architects to develop a design layout that would provide appropriate adjacencies and separations between public and private areas while also providing effective building security. The refurbished facility includes office space for all administrative positions, a public Board Room, staff training rooms, support spaces and central storage for the School District.

GKO Architects helped the District achieve cost savings by working with the existing layout to create a facility that met specific programming needs while preserving as much of the existing construction as possible.

The interior design of this project was carefully crafted using dynamic colors and textures, fine materials where appropriate, new furniture, and attractive natural and artificial lighting.

Location: Wernersville, PA
Description: Master Plan / Feasibility Study

St. John’s UCC Church, built in 1766, is a beautiful historic building. As with many historic structures, the original building has been altered and expanded over time resulting in floor levels which are misaligned. This has created a non-accessible internal circulation system. In addition to this issue, parking lots have been added on the side and rear portions of the property which do not provide convenient access to an appropriately sized Main Entry / Gathering Space.

To resolve these issues, the Church selected GKO Architects to prepare a Master Plan / Feasibility Study. We worked closely with the Church’s Building Committee to develop a Master Plan for the Facility which could be phased over time; this approach helped to make the corrections affordable. Phase One includes the installation of a New “Trellis-Style” Entry Canopy which features a Glass Roof, a new Gathering Space (which has been situated with convenient access to the Main Parking Area), and a new Elevator which provides accessibility to the Worship Space, Chapel, and Basement Fellowship Hall areas. Phase Two will include a second elevator which will provide accessibility to the remaining parts of the building.

Location: Ambler, PA
Description: Master Plan Study

The main goal of the Master Plan for St. Mary’s in Ambler, PA, was to create a walkable senior care residential community which would be connected to the Borough.  In working with a prospective developer of the historic property, GKO Architects proposed to save and repurpose the existing buildings while also constructing an array of new ones.  Many of the existing roads, which were original to the construction of the St. Mary’s Villa, were also retained and upgraded. The development proposed a combination of detached singles, large detailed singles, semi-detached carriage homes, Townhouses, Apartments, an Artist’s Collaborative facility, a Hotel, and a restaurant. In addition, the original gardens and man-made lake were retained and restored.

Location: Salem County, NJ
Description: New Home Construction

GKO Architects was retained by a commercial client to design a private residence in New Jersey. This two-story home was configured to enable the owner to easily entertain guests in an open and welcoming environment. The main entry foyer leads directly into a great room featuring a large living room area and adjacent kitchen. The formal dining room provides seating for up to 16 guests. A large Game Room overlooks the nearby wooded area towards the rear of the house. The Game Room features a central fireplace, full bar, complete bath, and direct access to an indoor/outdoor patio which would serve as a transitional space to the future outdoor deck and swimming pool.

Location: Lima, OH
Description: Private Residence

This home for two Medical Doctors was designed as a “Sanctuary” for their growing family. Situated on a beautiful 40-acre property, the house overlooks a tranquil pond. As requested by the Owners, inspiration for the exterior massing and interior layout came from the English Manor Houses of Edwin Lutyens and Charles Voysey.

Location: Englewood Cliffs, NJ
Description: Master Plan and Feasibility Study

CSJP is an Order of Sisters who own a beautiful 12.7 acre campus which overlooks the Hudson River.  The site’s location on top of a cliff provides a spectacular view of the New York City skyline.  In the RFP brief, the Sisters requested that GKO Architects prepare a Master Plan and Feasibility Study with several goals:

1)      Prepare a Master Plan of the Site that would provide a transition of use, so that when the facilities are no longer needed by the Order, the campus and its buildings would continue to serve the needs of others, and carry on the work and legacy of CSJP. 

2)      Study the potential of renovating one of the buildings on campus (or constructing a new facility) to accommodate the residential needs of the Sisters.

3)      Assess the condition of the campus and all of its buildings.

4)      Consider renewable energy sources and sustainable building design in the development of the campus.

After a thorough study and assessment of the campus and its buildings, research into the mission and goals of the Sisters, and collaborative work sessions with CSJP, a Master Plan was produced which over time would provide a transition of the campus from providing a home base for the Sisters to a Community based Senior Care Facility.

St. Michael Villa, which was built in 1938, is the main residential building on campus.  The attractive masonry building is a 50,000 square foot five-story structure with a walk-out basement.  After a thorough assessment study, Saint Michael Villa was identified for comprehensive renovation which would allow it to continue to serve the residential needs for CSJP. The preferred configuration of floor plans includes 20 new apartments for the Sisters, an apartment for the Chaplain, updated Chapel, Dining and Kitchen facilities, and new common areas for “socialization” of the Congregation of Sisters.  Planned renovations will include structural reinforcement of the building and a complete replacement of all building systems.  Renovating the existing Saint Michael Villa building, providing energy efficient building systems, and preserving the site’s natural resources were some of the sustainable design strategies employed in the Master Plan Concepts.

Location: Campus of Southern University, New Orleans, LA
Description: New Charter School Facility

Thurgood Marshall Academy (TMA) is a college preparatory, cyber-blended Charter School for High School and Middle School Students. TMA is a nationally-based program with numerous school locations. GKO Architects was engaged to design a satellite school in New Orleans, LA. This Charter School, with a cutting-edge educational program, was created in partnership with Southern University (SUNO – New Orleans Campus).

The Educational Program calls for Middle School Students to be on site full time while High School Students spend half their day at the school and the other half working on-line at home. This school was designed for 375 Students (225 Middle School students, 150 High School students attending split a.m. and p.m. Sessions) and was cost-efficient to construct.

Location: Township of Lower Moreland, PA
Description: New Public Works Facility

GKO Architects worked closely with the Township of Lower Moreland to design this new Public Works Facility. In its forty-year history as a municipal facility, the existing site had received only minor improvements; therefore the Township decided to commit the resources necessary for a comprehensive modernization of the entire facility. The new building includes private offices, open work stations, a break room, changing facilities, and high work bays to accommodate new automobile lifts, a gantry crane, machine shop, welding stations and ample storage space. The perimeter of the site was secured with a wall and sections of fencing. Additional parking was introduced to separate employee vehicles from Township equipment. Improvements were made to an existing metal building for additional storage space and a new high bay salt storage building was constructed. With the incorporation of pre-engineered structural framing and careful selection of materials and MEP systems, submitted bids were 5% under budget (with most alternates selected).

Location: Chalfont, PA
Description: Revitalization of Unami Middle School

Central Bucks School District proposed an interesting concept to revitalize Unami Middle School utilizing phased renovations so that the construction could be completed over the course of several Summers. For the past several years, GKO Architects has been working with CBSD to make this concept a reality for Unami Middle School.

The initial renovation project transformed the school’s auditorium. Following, additional revitalization projects have included: renovation of science classrooms, Art and Music Rooms, general classrooms, and renovations / additions to the Athletic Department. The final phase of renovations were completed Summer of 2016.

Location: Upper Dublin Township, PA
Description: Building Addition and Renovations

In conjunction with Upper Dublin Township and the Fort Washington Fire Company, GKO Architects worked with D’Huy Engineering to plan the Additions and Renovations to the Burn Brae Fire Station.

Renovations include improvements to the interior of the original Fire Station and a new addition to the street-side of the building which provides an equipment bay with front and back garage-bay doors. A significant effort was made to stylistically tie-in the addition with the original firehouse built in the late 1970’s. Materials, colors, and proportional massing were all utilized to achieve the harmonious integration between old and new parts of the building, while also providing a refreshed image along Susquehanna Road.

Location: Ambler, PA
Description: Narthex Expansion & New Multipurpose Facility

In contemplating its future, this growing congregation was in need of a Master Plan. GKO Architects worked closely with the Upper Dublin Lutheran Church to create a vision for their facility which would support their goals, needs, and overall mission. The Master Plan included an assessment of existing building conditions; creation of a new space program; and design options for an expansion and renovation of the existing facility. The Congregation has completed construction of the First Phase of the Master Plan, which included: additional classrooms, Fellowship Hall, Narthex expansion, upgrading the building’s electric and HVAC systems, and site-related improvements.

Location: Upper Dublin, PA
Description: Adaptive Reuse for Library Facility

GKO Architects is currently working with Upper Dublin Township to adaptively reuse a former pharmaceutical office building as the new home for their Public Library. The 56,000 square foot 2-story structure includes an Auditorium, a Cafe, and rentable tenant space.

The Library includes a diverse array of resources and activities for the community: STEM Creation Lab, Computer Lab, Classrooms, Conference Rooms, Study Rooms, and multiple reading and lounge options within the stacks of library materials. Visibility and opening up the floor plate to provide natural light were driving design factors. To accomplish this goal of providing natural light throughout, a new glass railing system in the Lobby, radial book shelf layout at the “Great Hall”, and large glass openings were installed between public enclosed spaces.

Photo by: Steve Wolfe Photography

Location: Upper Providence Township, PA
Description: Central Emergency Services

GKO Architects is currently completing Construction Documents for a New 21,300 SF Central Emergency Services Building for Upper Providence Township, PA. GKO Architects and Redstone, a nationally recognized emergency services design consultant, have collaborated on this State-of-the-Art facility which has been crafted to be compatible with the Township’s existing Municipal buildings and the local community context.

The building will feature: four drive-thru apparatus bays which will accommodate eight pieces of emergency and fire equipment; Training Room/Emergency Operations Center, drill tower; wellness and fitness rooms; vehicle exhaust extraction system; and Day Room with access to an outdoor courtyard. For the safety and health of personnel, the building has been designed with separate Hot/ Warm/ Cold environmental zones. This Emergency Services Center will be staffed by a combination of volunteer and professional Fire Fighters and EMS personnel.

Location: Northampton Township, PA
Description: Master Plan and New Auditorium

Villa Joseph Marie High School (VJMHS), an independent private College Prep School for Girls, offers an excellent educational program including Honors and Advanced Placement courses. With a goal to provide better support for the successful program at VJMHS, GKO Architects was challenged to provide a Master Plan for the campus. After the proposed Master Plan Concept was endorsed by the Board of Directors, GKO Architects was asked to design Phase One, which includes a new Auditorium, new secure entry, additions to the Administrative Offices, and a comprehensive transformation of the current Library to form a state-of-the-art “Technology and Media Center” which will feature student collaboration rooms.

Location: Malvern, PA
Description: New Student Union Building

Villa Maria Academy High School (VMAHS) is a top ranking independent Catholic private high school for girls (grades 9-12). The school was formed and operated by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

The school’s leadership envisioned a Student Union Building which would be the centerpiece of their beautiful campus in Malvern; its function would be to accommodate student services, social activities, and worship. Program spaces for the new facility include: a secure Main Entrance for all visitors to the campus, Administrative Offices, Chapel, Counseling Department, Health Suite, Student Commons for group study and collaboration, Faculty and Student Dining Rooms, and food prep services. A statuary garden and a south-facing dining terrace will provide opportunity for outdoor activities. Construction is scheduled to start in the Spring of 2021.

Location: West Chester, PA
Description: Design Proposal for a New Dining Center

In response to a request from West Chester University, GKO Architects, in association with Holzman Moss Bottino Architecture, developed a design proposal for a New Dining Center. Our team’s basic concept for the Dining Center was to create a “Social Heart” for the Campus. Inspiration for the concept came from Spanish town squares and courtyards. This concept was interpreted in a modern way as a centralized Dining Hall topped with a glass roof, which created an enclosed interior courtyard.

Location: Blue Bell, PA
Description: Improvements to Municipal Building and Township Properties Master Plan

GKO Architects has been working with Whitpain Township since 2006 on an array of improvements to the Township Building and its satellite properties. We started by preparing a feasibility study to expand the Township Building. Next we completed renovations on the Main Floor Level, including a reconfiguration of the Administrative Offices and security updates to the Police Area. The next step was to renovate the Police Department Area.

Finally, we prepared a comprehensive Master Plan Study of the Township’s 10 satellite properties. The Master Plan provided recommendations on all of the Township Buildings and Properties including concepts for space reorganization and future renovation/addition needs.

Location: Horsham Township, PA
Description: Master Plan/ Schematic Design of a New Museum Facility

The Delaware Valley Historic Aircraft Association (DVHAA) is a dynamic organization that owns an impressive array of vintage aircrafts. It currently operates a small museum known as the Wings of Freedom Aircraft Museum, which is located at the former Willow Grove Naval Air Station. For a number of years, the leadership of DVHAA had envisioned the construction of a new museum that would provide a national destination for viewing, restoring, and researching historic aircrafts.

With a soaring roof expressive of “flight,” GKO Architect’s design includes a New Exhibit Hall that is sized for both the current and future aircraft collections. The New Museum, which is planned to be constructed on the same site as the existing facility, will be enclosed with tall glazed walls and will include sun-protection via cantilevered exterior shading louvers. A centralized “Control Tower” – planned to be part of the exhibit experience – will provide a vertical counterpoint to the roof and will serve to anchor the exterior composition. The Exhibit Hall has been designed with large sliding “hangar” doors, which can be opened to provide natural ventilation and for aircraft access and egress. As a cost-control strategy, the “back-of-house” support functions will be provided in the former Naval Air Station PX Building, which will be renovated. Fundraising efforts for the project are currently underway.

Location: Wallingford, PA
Description: New Addition & Renovations

Wallingford Swarthmore School District has been in the process of revitalizing its buildings for more than a decade. In 2010, GKO Architects was selected to design additions and renovations to Wallingford Elementary School. This project completely transformed an outdated 1960’s era school into a vital 21st Century learning environment. Utilizing a well-conceived Phasing Plan, new Additions were constructed and readied for occupancy as the existing building was demolished in several phases. An 11,000-square-foot portion of the existing building was retained and renovated to accommodate the Administrative Offices and other program support spaces, while a 57,000-square-foot addition was constructed to house new instructional spaces. The final result was a transformed, reconfigured, and educationally revitalized state-of-the-art Elementary School with new energy efficient-building systems.

Location: Warrington Township, PA
Description: New Police Building

GKO Architects and Redstone teamed together for this new 18,500 SF Police facility which is currently under construction. The planning team collaborated with the Police Chief and Departmental Staff, Township Administration, Township Planning and Supervisor Boards, Boyle Construction (CM) and several Citizen’s Advisory committees to design and help build community consensus for the project. Many innovative ideas have been incorporated into this State-of-the-Art facility such as a unique gathering /work /collaboration space which forms the “heart” of police operations area. The exterior of the building has been designed and crafted to be compatible with the existing Municipal buildings and the local community context.

Location: Warrington Township, PA
Description: Concept Design Renderings

GKO Architects and Redstone Architects, a nationally recognized emergency services design consultant, joined forces for this conceptual design proposal for a New Police Station. The original design concept incorporated flexible Public Meeting Room to accommodate community-based programs. This shared resource was intended to help foster communication between the Township Police Department and the local Community. A “community lobby”, which forms the focal point of the building, was proposed as a separation zone between public space and police department operations.

After our team was selected for the project, the program for the facility was revised by the Township. The revised program requirements resulted in a new design concept being proposed by the team. The revised design concept was ultimately constructed.

Location: Lower Merion Township, PA
Description: Cafeteria Renovation

This project for a highly successful private school involves a complete renovation of the cafeteria, faculty dining, and kitchen areas. The challenge of this project has been designing the alterations so that they can be completed over the summer months of 2021. This project commenced with a feasibility study that included interactive workshops with the administration, building committee, and faculty.

Location: Warrington Township, PA
Description: New Police Station Building

GKO Architects and Redstone Architects, a nationally recognized emergency services design consultant, teamed together for this new 18,500 SF Police Station facility. In designing this new facility, the planning team collaborated with the Police Chief, Departmental Staff, Township Administration, Township Planning and Supervisor Boards, Construction Managers, and several Citizen’s Advisory committees. This process of idea sharing helped build community consensus for the project.

Many innovative ideas have been incorporated into this State-of-the-Art facility such as a unique gathering /work /collaboration space which forms the “heart” of operations. The exterior of the building has been crafted for compatibility with the existing Municipal buildings and the local community context.