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WhiteSpace Architects has been selected to design a new multi-use building at Helemano Elementary School in Wahiawa, it was announced Thursday.
The $16 million, 12,000-square-foot facility will be built within the existing footprint of the school's administration building, which was constructed 70 years ago. The new structure will house a student library media and health center, and counseling and faculty offices, as well as create a centralized space for community gatherings.
“I am excited for the new administration and library building, which will create much-needed space for our students and staff. The learning opportunities for the Helemano community will be greatly enhanced for years to come,” said Helemano Elementary School Principal Ernest Muh in a statement.
WhiteSpace Architects President Laura Ayers will serve as the project's principal architect; Alessandra Marsh is the project manager; and Rebecca Ziebelman and Ana Ruiz are the designers.
WhiteSpace Architects said in a statement, "The architectural design inspiration is rooted in Helemano’s past, which is intertwined with the area’s history as a pineapple plantation. The design incorporates a cohesive color palette of Helemano’s green and yellow with brown to evoke the pineapple itself."
The project also includes a parking lot reconfiguration, and landscaping and walkway improvements outside the building.
WhiteSpace Architects expects pre-construction to start later this year, demolition of the existing building to begin in spring of 2025 and a mid-2025 groundbreaking, according to the announcement.
Other recent school projects by WhiteSpace Architects include the $11 million Searider Productions’ facility at Waianae High School, the $8 million girls’ athletic locker room at Waipahu High School, and the $7 million Kanoelani Elementary School cafeteria and outdoor pavilion.