Life Long Learning
A school at the Brooklyn Marine Terminal Brooklyn, USA Teamwork: Akua Appiah-Adu + Boseol Seo Professors: Dana Getman + Steven Garcia
A school at Cobble Hill
SITE CONTEXT
This project reimagines the school as a civic landscape where learning extends beyond the classroom and into everyday life. Situated on the waterfront, it creates a mixed-use environment of educational, residential, commercial, and community spaces that foster intergenerational learning, civic engagement, and environmental stewardship.
The concept was shaped by a visit to Cobble Hill, where we observed children playing behind perimeter fences. While necessary for safety, these barriers prompted us to question how schools often become isolated from the communities they serve. In response, the project explores a more open and connected model, where learning is woven into public life rather than confined within walls.
By integrating shared civic spaces with a resilient waterfront landscape, the design transforms education into a lifelong dialogue between people, community, and place.
Bridging the Gap through Education
School District 15- Current School StatusThe racial makeup of middle school students in District 15
School Seat Needs & Capacity Projects
WHAT MAKES THIS WATERFRONT SCHOOL DIFFERENT
In the WaterImmerse
Swimming lessons for kids
Under the WaterNurture
Smaller scale for kids
Above the WaterObserve
Waterfront Library
Swimming
Professional Diving- Harbour School
Aquaponics
Higher scale for the community
Library + Lab
Water Quality Testing Lab
Here, creativity meets opportunity.
On the WaterCreate
Making space
Kids boat making
Cycle the WaterEngage
Interacting with water table
Higher level of woodwork
Water Reuse System
Water Recycling System for Building
CONCEPT
COURTYARD
Create- Makerspace
Observe- Library, Lab
Nurture- Aquaponics
Engage- Water Simulation
Immerse- Swimming
CHILDREN'S PLAY AREAFLOOR PLANSECTIONBRIDGE
Learn- Science Lab, Art Studio, Music Room
Gather- Cafeteria
Commons- Community Bridge
Motion- Gym
Wellness- Fitness
AXONOMETRIC
COURTYARD FOR RESIDENCE
ENTRANCE OF HOUSINGLARGE WATERCYCLING SYSTEM FOR LEARNING AND PLAYING
NIGHTDuring the day, spaces are used for educational purposes and at night, it turns into a civic commons for the community
EDUCATIONAL CAMPUS
ELEVATED LEARNING BLOCKS
DAY
NORTHERN VIEW OF CAMPUS
INTEGRATED PROGRAMSCHOOL AND HOUSING CIRCULATION
MAKERSPACE