Konic™ Enhances Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders
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Founded in 2007, Ann Richards School for Young Women Leaders is an all-girls preparatory school in the Austin Independent School District. To support its growth, a new, state-of-the-art building project marked a milestone for the school. The new building includes academic wings, space for fine arts, a track and field, and even a two-story slide in the library. Designed to support an integrated STEM curriculum, the new facility opened in January 2021.
Railing System: Konic™ railing system
Location: Austin, TX
Architect: O’Connell Robertson
Contractor: Rogers-O’Brien Construction
Blending Function and Style
When students and staff enter the facility, the Commons welcomes them. In addition to serving as a hub for student and staff activities, this space aims to convey a feeling of openness and collaboration. With this in mind, O’Connell Robertson architects selected HDI’s Konic™ Railing System for its safety and aesthetic balance.
Jayna Duke, RID, LEED AP, Principal Architect at O’Connell Robertson, praised the collaboration: “HDI was incredible on the Ann Richard’s School project. They helped design a system that made the organic form of the central stair, inspired by Ann Richards, while staying in budget. The final product met our every need.”
Sustainable Design at the Forefront
In this project, HDI Railings’ expertise in sustainable and functional design was key. Our products, which align with LEED standards, actively contributed to Ann Richards School’s LEED Silver certification. Specifically, the Konic™ system, featuring AISI 304 stainless steel with high recycled content, was a pivotal choice that underscored the school’s dedication to sustainability.
Collaboration Overcomes Challenges
Furthermore, collaboration with Rogers-O’Brien Construction was key to overcoming installation challenges. Susan Stewart, Project Manager, stated, “HDI Railings was an instrumental ally. The glass railings, installed in complicated locations, helped achieve the designer’s vision.” She added, “The materials and design maintained the openness of the Commons and natural light in the Library, crucial areas of the school, with the HDI team playing a key part in delivering a beautiful project to the AISD community.”
With the Konic™ Railing System, the Ann Richards School’s lobby transcends its functional role, symbolizing the school’s commitment to leadership and creativity. HDI Railings’ contribution went beyond installation, embodying excellence and innovation in line with the school’s mission to empower young women.