Woodbridge Middle School

The Woodbridge Township School District hired LAN to update the one-hundred-year-old Woodbridge Middle School. The goal was to create a more advanced learning environment and transform the building’s ability to function as a welcoming community center for the town’s residents.

LAN created a handicap-accessible plaza on the southern edge of the building that seamlessly blends into the existing design and welcomes guests as the new main entrance. The entire project consists of a new gymnasium and locker rooms, large music classrooms, six new science rooms, a creative commons, production studio, and newly renovated classrooms.

A large glass vestibule was added to the existing façade, creating a glowing box and beacon for basketball games and other community events. As students and fans enter the main lobby, they are welcomed into a large vestibule which incorporates arched windows. The school’s logo is proudly highlighted in the center by a textured wall and LED lighting which creates a collegiate feel and promotes school spirit.

A new creative commons on the top floor functions as a flexible maker space where students learn about coding, robotics, 3D printing, and laser cutting while creating whatever project the curriculum demands. The commons is designed for the 21st century learning environment with full whiteboard walls, tackable surfaces, and assembly countertops.

During the design process and budgeting, LAN evaluated various designs at the Woodbridge Middle School that consisted of alterations and additions to the building. By redesigning full replacement of one of the wings to be demolished and saving key structural elements and building features, LAN was able to boost the Debt Service Aid by over $6 million by reclassifying the project as a renovation and not an addition.