Lancaster Mennonite School Rutt Academic Center
The newest addition to the 90-acre Lancaster Campus, the Rutt Academic Center provides state-of-the-art laboratory space for sciences, technologically advanced mathematics classrooms, and a dedicated family and consumer science floor. Additionally, the building provides new administrative suites. The site of the building enhances the curb appeal of the campus along its Lincoln Highway frontage. The large glass curtain wall and elevated entry lobby are illuminated at night providing a visual icon at the main entrance to campus.
To minimize site disturbance and decrease storm water runoff, the building was located on existing overflow parking areas, which allowed for decreased site impact and a greener construction project. To further promote green building technologies, the building employs a green roof and interior garden space to help manage rainwater. Exterior landscape and rain gardens provide living classroom environments for the science curriculum as well.
Parking, circulation, and pedestrian access were important site planning aspects of the project as well. Sidewalk connections to and through the building connect students from common parking areas to the core academic campus.