Aspen View Public School Division heard from the third and final architect firm interested in designing a proposed new school in Athabasca.
Rob Rabinovitch from Workun Garrick Partnership Architecture and Interior Design Inc. attended the Aspen View School Division meeting April 18 to present why his firm should be chosen for the project of compiling a study on a new school and pool at the Athabasca Regional Multiplex.
ìWe are looking at scenarios, options, preliminary designs,î he said. ìWe would work though those ideas so we can have something in hand, and basically get a jump start on the game as far as funding and Alberta Infrastructure.î
Two other architectural firms presented at a school board meeting in March.
Rabinovitch said he believes it is good to do these studies.
ìIf you can do something like this ahead of time, you can bring something forward, especially if you are looking at tying it in with another facility.î
Rabinovitch spoke highly of the proposed project.
ìIt is a little different than a standard project, and if you can come forward with a plan that shows exactly how this is going to work, and is unique, the chances of moving forward are much greater,î he said. ìIt all plays in and impacts the design, and the cost of the final project.î
Rabinovitch said the study would show that the board has thought through all their options.
Rabinovitch explained the building would look good, and be functional.
ìJust to make a building look pretty Ö if it doesnít function, well, that doesnít do anyone any good.î
Creating a building isnít all about bricks and mortar, he said.
ìYou want to create spaces that people want to be in,î he said. ìAt the end of the day, it doesnít matter what building it is; if you walk into it and it doesnít feel right, and it doesnít feel warm and inviting, then it is not going to be successful.î
School board superintendent Brian LeMessurier said itís the right time to look at a new school.
ì(The old schools) have served us well, but itís time,î he said. ìWith the premier saying there is money on the table for new schools this is a good time to go after it.î
