Architects: BHNT Architects

Seneca Math Science Tech is part of Buffalo Public School’s Phase 4 Reconstruction project, and will have the most extensive learning environment we have created for middle and high school students.

Because the program for Seneca is focused on Math, Science and Technology, we had the opportunity to really take the curriculum they are known for inside the building to the exterior. The building configuration allowed a paved service court to be repurposed as a learning courtyard, providing direct access to the space for students and faculty. The space is surrounded on three sides by building, providing some enhanced security for the space. The fourth side will be gated.

The wide range of ages and curriculum was the largest challenge for the site, as it needed to meet NYS curriculum opportunities for grades 5-12. Rather than developing areas to address age groups, or to address disciplines of study, it was ultimately decided to develop an “Ecosystem” model, providing access to a variety of environments and allowing the faculty to develop the curriculum to meet their particular class, project or individual student needs.

The courtyard will provide ecosystem elements such as: a pond, stream, rain garden or “bog” environment, meadow, forest, bedrock layer and mountain areas. In addition a lawn area is included to provide a group instruction area. Functional areas were developed alongside the faculty and principal as well as specific site needs to meet NYS Regents level science lab practicals.