Project Details
Facility: Christa McAuliffe Elementary School
Location: Concord, NH
Photography: © 2012 Ed Wonsek | © 2024 Ridgelight Studio Photography
Architect/Design: HMFH Architects

Products: norament® grano™

Project Background

Christa McAuliffe Elementary opened in 2012 as part of the Concord School District’s initiative to replace aging schools with modern, efficient facilities. The district collaborated with HMFH Architects to create spaces that were not only functional but also inspiring for both teachers and students. Their goal was to build an environment that fostered learning while embracing the latest educational design principles.

In developing the new schools, the district focused on innovative design, guided by input from educators and community leaders. They also took a closer look at the materials used throughout the buildings—especially the flooring.

While schools commonly use VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) for its affordability and durability, it often requires extensive maintenance and has a relatively short lifespan. With a long-term vision in mind, the district opted for nora® rubber flooring for all three new schools, recognizing its durability, low maintenance, and overall cost savings over time.

Twelve years later, the decision has proven to be a wise one. “The floors look like they were installed yesterday,” says Matt Cashman, Director of Facilities and Planning for the Concord School District.

“They still receive the same compliments we’ve gotten since day one,” says Principal Krista Gallo, who has been with Christa McAuliffe Elementary since its opening.

Built to Withstand the Test of Time

It’s no secret that kids can be tough on floors, and the students at Christa McAuliffe are no exception. Art teacher Silas Allard recalls, “I’ve turned around to find a tile covered in Sharpie or glitter glue mud pies—but you’d never know it from looking at these floors.”

“It’s amazing,” adds Principal Gallo. “These floors can withstand anything—even the messes that a kindergartner can throw at them!”

But it’s not just the children that test the floors. New England’s harsh Nor’easters also pose a challenge, with winter storms tracking in mud, salt, and sand. Despite the heavy foot traffic and weathering, the floors continue to perform beautifully.

Low Maintenance, High Impact

Floor maintenance is always a concern, especially in a busy school setting. Wayne Rourke, the Head Custodian at Christa McAuliffe, appreciates the reduced workload that comes with nora® flooring. “Anyone in my position knows that anything that minimizes your workload helps,” he says.

Unlike VCT, which requires regular stripping and waxing, nora® rubber flooring doesn’t need any protective coating. This significantly reduces the labor required by the janitorial staff, saving time and money.

“Summer cleaning is intense, top to bottom,” Rourke explains. “But with these floors, all it takes is a scrub and a high-speed buff to make them look brand new. It’s nice to have a standard that makes the floors look fresh and inviting, especially when you’re responsible for maintaining them.”

A Long-Term Investment in Design

School districts must be strategic with their budgets, and the Concord School District was no exception. Although nora® rubber flooring had a higher upfront cost, the long-term savings made it a worthwhile investment.

“We’re lucky that our school board values long-term planning,” says Principal Gallo. “Our administrators did a great job communicating those savings to the larger community.”

Matt Cashman adds, “VCT typically lasts around 14 years, but with the heavy wear and tear in schools, you’re always replacing it. With nora® rubber floors, the lifespan is upwards of 30 years. We haven’t had to replace any of our rubber flooring, and it still looks brand new over a decade later.”

© 2024 Ridgelight Studio Photography

“We Do It for the Kids”

While financial and maintenance benefits are important, the most important feedback comes from the students. Principal Gallo recalls, “When the kids first walked in, they couldn’t believe the space was for them. They said, ‘Oh my gosh, this is for us?’ And that stuck with me, because yes, it absolutely is. You deserve spaces that excite you. You belong here.”

Silas Allard echoes this sentiment: “The colors and the vibe of the space really energize things. It’s a space the students genuinely enjoy spending time in.”