Synthesis provided overall project management and owner representation services to the Friends Community School in College Park, Maryland. The parcel is contiguous with Greenbelt National Park on three sides and is easily accessible. The project consisted of:

• Approximately 28,500 square feet of new construction on a 17 acre site owned by FCS.
• K through 8 classrooms, offices, multi-purpose spaces, a media center and specialty classrooms for science, art and language.
• Associated site work, included storm water management, utilities, roads, parking and playfields.

Synthesis managed programming, feasibility study, design and permitting, and identified and planned temporary relocation facilities for use during the construction period.

An important element of the project was the desire of FCS to use “green” and sustainable building materials, systems and construction practices. A Silver Level LEED™ certification is pending.  The most unusual feature of the building was the use of straw bales in the exterior walls as infill between the post and beam structure.  After placement, the bales were coated with a thick plaster finish inside and out.  The roof is partially vegetated and the design and orientation of the building maximizes the use of natural light.