Arium was hired by Chesapeake Lighthouse Foundation (CLF) to determine the suitability of a site and existing single-story building for use as a school. Situated less than half a mile from Chesapeake Math & IT Academy (CMIT) South Middle/High School the building was determined to meet programmatic requirements of a kindergarten – fifth-grade student population. Arium performed additional studies that further justified the adaptive reuse of the property and assisted the owner in outlining anticipated improvements needed to the site and structure. An Educational Specification document that outlined the space and planning requirements for the proposed school was developed and based on the complete collection of reports and planning efforts CLF elected to hire Arium to proceed with the project.

Arium provided full architecture and MEP engineering design services for the interior of the 60,000 sq. ft. school. Careful consideration was given to the kindergarten classroom locations to allow for easy access to the cafeteria, gymnasium, and outdoor play area. Fourth and fifth graders were situated on the opposite end of the building with dedicated math and science classrooms as well as an ecology/STEM lab. Robotics, art, and music rooms were also provided along the center spine of the school to allow for easy access by all students. Vibrant colors were used throughout to brighten the classrooms and provide clear wayfinding for both students and visitors to the facility.