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The Goddard School of Novi

Project Size: 16,296 SF

Completion: 2025

Location: Novi, MI

KDG collaborated with franchise owners to design a new annex to greatly expand their existing school in Novi, Michigan. The design of the new structure complements the existing structure, but also further enhances the safe and nurturing environment that The Goddard Schools are known for. The new annex features nine additional classrooms, a 1,445 square-foot gym, vibrant activity room, covered outdoor dining area, three playgrounds and an outdoor sports court to enrich early childhood learning and development.

The site is located next to protected wetlands; the owners wanted to leverage their view and create unique educational opportunities for the children. This inspired a biophilic approach to the design focusing around a centralized courtyard, creating visual interest and providing opportunities for children to interact and learn about nature.

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The replication of existing brick and stone matched with the repeating rhythm of timeless architectural elements reflect across the exterior façade onto the new addition. The multitiered cupola, gabled canopy and accented stone create a seamless and purposeful transition from new to old and brings focus to the new entrance.

The main lobby modernizes the worldly motifs used in the existing location while incorporating biophilic elements. Design highlights include custom wooden trees anchoring the space, digitally created wallcovering, and raindrop inspired light fixtures suspended from the cupola. The lobby looks directly out onto the central courtyard creating the added advantage of marketing to potential families touring the property. Every feature of the project was analyzed to ensure the annex was highly functional and durable to withstand the proposed uses of the spaces.

KDG’s design for the expansion of the Goddard School Novi incorporates the Goddard School’s high standard of design and creates a compatible addition that is seamless with the original building.