COLUMBIA, SC – Quackenbush Architects + Planners received a Historic Columbia 2021 Preservation Award in May for its revitalization of the Rosewood Elementary School Library in Richland County School District One.
Awarded each year in celebration of Preservation Month, the prestigious Preservation Awards recognize local projects and leaders that have maintained or added to Columbia and Richland County’s historical, architectural and cultural heritage.
The Quackenbush project entails a renovation and addition of a new, innovative educational space for Rosewood Elementary, a 400-student school, which outgrew its original 1930’s-era design. The addition includes a modern reading room, conference areas and maker space, all with flexible furniture and soft seating. The new flexible, daylight-filled design is meant to accommodate the ever-changing needs of students and faculty. Penn Contracting, LLC, was the contractor for the project.
Historic Columbia praised the new addition’s siting to minimize visual impact on the original structure. The preservationists also highlighted the addition’s deep red brick and shingled hipped roof to complement the original structure. They noted that “the circulation along the exterior and interior of the glazing is very strong” and commended the “nice composition” on the front entry and west elevation’s façades. In particular, the organization said, “The interiors have a great color palette and we appreciate how the colors speak to nature. These interiors create a really nice color scheme for wayfinding.”
“This year’s Preservation Award winners showcase the building owners, developers, architects and contractors who make historic preservation a reality through their time, talents and funds,” said Robin Waites, Historic Columbia executive director. The Quackenbush team was one of four recipients of the Revitalization (all categories) award. Other awards given were for Preservation Leadership; Preservation, Rehabilitation or Restoration (residential); and Preservation, Rehabilitation or Restoration (commercial, institutional, rental or municipal). "
“The Quackenbush team is honored to be recognized for our work in celebrating Columbia’s rich architectural history, says Quackenbush Architects + Planners President Doug Quackenbush. “We believe this project will benefit our community for future generations.”
Quackenbush Architects + Planners is a full-service architecture and planning firm located in Columbia, SC. The firm specializes in institutional, civic, educational, and commercial projects. Its services span from building design to land planning to interior design. The firm’s portfolio includes projects for universities, cities, colleges, government agencies, school districts, and private clients. The team’s work reflects commitment to innovation, sensitivity to our regional context, and the richness that comes from collaboration with our clients and the community.