This new 8-story PK-8 grade Zeta Charter School occupies a rectangular site between West 218th and West 219th Streets along 9th Avenue in the Inwood section of Manhattan. This district of Inwood will be going through many changes due to zoning district regulations. The building main entrance is on West 219th St closest to subway. The facility is divided into an elementary school, housing 654 students, and a double middle school accommodating 564 students. The plan is configured as an “L” to maximize light and air to the general and specialized classrooms. Common spaces include a kitchen/dining complex, gymatorium, exercise room, and administrative and support functions. There are 2 playroofs, a 2,500 SF ECC playground on the 2nd floor and a 10,000 SF netted rooftop play space.
The facade and exterior signage of the building accommodates ZETA’s signature branding elements. There was extensive and meticulous coordination to achieve the various acoustical requirements as a result the specialized programs which include a band & orchestra room, interactive labs, and the gymnatorium.
Zeta’s brand is reflected throughout the design. The Z-inspired graphics, large geometric patterns and signature bright colors, as well as the characteristic floating discs in the ceilings, were executed in conjunction with Zeta’s interior designer Jean Won Mosler.
