4.2.2. Reed Academy, Oakland, NJ

Figure 12 : Elevation, Student Entrance & Central Courtyard at the Eden Institute (Source: KSS Architects, 2011)

4.2.2. Reed Academy, Oakland, NJ

WXY Architecture and Urban Design, 2011

Figure 13 : REED Academy, Oakland (Source: WXY, 2011)

The architects of REED Academy veer from the traditional norm of following the ‘sensory-sensitive’ approach to design, instead choosing to follow a more ‘neuro-typical’ route. This means that instead of controlling the sensory stimuli throughout the complex, they choose to have select stimuli at certain locations in a moderate manner, to ensure that the students learn to adapt under ‘real-world’ conditions. This is done by using different lights and lighting fixtures, varied colour, texture and material palettes. The flow of spaces from high to low stimulus is purposely left ambiguous to encourage students to adapt to varied situations.

Figure 14 : REED Academy Ground Floor Plan (Source: WXY, 2011)

Circulation patterns are also intentionally left vague to promote independence and social interaction for the students. Instead of placing escape spaces within the classroom setting, the architects choose to introduce small nooks along the corridors looking into the courtyards which can be used for social interactions as well as makeshift spaces for alternative teaching methods. Sight lines and transparencies of the materials utilised have been considered to ensure that there is freedom for students within the complex while also keeping in mind safety issues. The design seems to focus less on seamless integration of spaces that provide a sense of routine for its students, and more on bolstering the students independence and ability to navigate situations that mimic the ‘real-world’. This is done to ensure seamless integration into society later on.

Figure 6 : Clear Organisation of spaces at REED Academy in Oakland, New Jersey (Source: WXY, 2011)

Figure 15 : Circulation, Buit-Open Relationship & Sensory Zoning at the REED Academy (Source: WXY, 2011)