The design draws upon Northbridge’s rich mill history.
The town is part of the Blackstone Valley Heritage Corridor. To celebrate this heritage, the building’s exterior uses elements of red brick piers and stone base. Conversely, the choice of lightweight metal wall panels and cornice elements brings a forward-looking attitude.
The new Northbridge Elementary School was built in close proximity to the existing W. Edward Balmer School. SMMA led a detailed logistics and planning process—involving multiple phases of construction—to ensure the existing school’s operation was not impacted.
Designed by Dore & Whittier Architects and constructed by Fontaine Bros., the school opened in 2021.