Cedar Creek Elementary Learning Studios

Additional Info

Award Winner : Ramtech Building Systems, Inc.

Architectural Excellence : In early 2018, Pfluger Architects reached out on behalf of Eanes Independent School district with a custom portable classroom need. Cedar Creek Elementary was facing an enrollment increase and needed to replace old portable classrooms with newer, more space-efficient structures. Partnering with Pfluger, Ramtech was able to alter our standard double-classroom building into a more open, inviting space, with one large restroom and a connecting corridor. The rooms include open, sloped ceilings with exposed painted trusses and spiral ductwork, along with pendant lighting and full height projected windows for increased natural light. Both buildings are connected by a shared composite deck and are oriented to look out on a learning courtyard that often transforms into the day’s classroom.

Cost Energy Effectiveness : Cedar Creek Elementary has an established multi-structure campus in a heavily treed area in Austin, TX, which would have made conventionally constructed buildings prohibitively expensive. Using Ramtech’s modular classrooms, the school was able to realize their architect’s vision for new learning studios without having to sacrifice functionality, aesthetics or budget. With the expectation of future expansion, it is likely that additional learning studios may be added and that orientations may need to adjust, which creates no issues given the relocatable nature of the buildings. Additionally, commercial storefront windows and doors were not within the school’s budget, thus Ramtech incorporated the aforementioned windows to complement steels doors with full-height panels to reduce cost and add an architectural flare to the exterior.

Design Firm Name : Pfluger Architects

Installer Firm Name : ALCO Construction

Occupied Date : 8/23/2018

Owner Firm Name : Eanes Independent School District

Production Start Date : 6/20/2018

Project Location City : Austin

Project Location State Name : Texas

Technical Innovation : A key challenge Ramtech faced in designing the classrooms was inviting the courtyard’s natural beauty into the classroom and incorporating daylighting controls to deliver desired interior lighting in an efficient, aesthetically pleasing way. This was achieved through modified fenestration including six full-height picture over awning style windows and direct/indirect lighting fixtures that take advantage of the reflection off whitewashed linear plank ceilings. Light colored raised metal roofs with 16” overhangs reflect heat and provide shade from excessive afternoon sunlight, and a highly efficient split system HVAC with insulated spiral ducts further add to the building’s sustainability.

Total Square Feet : 3072

Category : Relocatable: Education: under 10,000 sq. ft.