HMFH Architects announced that the East Fairhaven Elementary School in Fairhaven, Massachusetts was named one of the four model elementary schools by the Massachusetts School Board Authority (MSBA) at its July 28, 2010 board meeting.

MSBA’s pilot Model School Program began in 2009 with the identification of two successful recently constructed high schools. The elementary school program continues the agency’s goal to deliver effective schools by capitalizing on proven solutions and perpetuating design and construction best practices. According to the MSBA, adapting these proven school designs will compress the design/bid schedule, reduce construction changes orders and limit the impact of cost inflation.

HMFH’s design of the East Fairhaven Elementary School was cited for its highly efficient floor plan, as well as its adaptable and flexible use of space.  The 74,630 SF school serves 475 students in pre-K through fifth grade.  The school has a straightforward plan that simplifies navigation for its young users and bright colors and strong patterning to reinforce the child-centric environment.