Robinson O’Neal School Redesigned and Rebuilt
Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands – Marking the continuation of BVI reconstruction efforts, Oil Nut Bay in conjunction with OBMI are taking the reins to re-envision and redesign the Robinson O’Neal School in Virgin Gorda. Mr. David Johnson, owner of Oil Nut Bay is funding the reconstruction, while OBMI is donating its time and resources for the architecture portion of the reconstruction. Cross Studios has generously donated time to help visualize OBMI’s architectural drawings into 3D renderings.
The school was virtually destroyed by Hurricane Irma, with ripped off roofs, blasted windows, and destroyed interiors. All due diligence and the site survey were provided by Oil Nut Bay, so OBMI could dive right in with the reconstruction drawings and architectural renderings, in order for building to begin as soon as possible.
All wood roof structures were removed and substituted by flat concrete roofs, up to Miami-Dade code standards, resistant to 180 mph hurricane winds. A second floor was added for two extra classrooms, following the same design guidelines of the original structure. OBMI and the building crew at Oil Nut Bay have worked on many projects together in the past, allowing for a challenge-free process till now.
The redesigned and renovated school will benefit from an improved structural integrity, up to Miami-Dade code, resistant to future hurricanes, providing a safe space for all students, and is set to be completed in time for the new school year in 2018. As construction develops, OBMI will keep on as a consultant for whatever is needed throughout.
“It was heartbreaking to see the aftermath of Hurricane Irma and what it did to the local community. When Oil Nut Bay reached out to us to help in this restoration effort, we jumped at the opportunity. Being able to give back to the community we’ve been working with for so long is something we are proud of. I’m extremely happy in having the opportunity to be a part of this project and am looking forward to the day when the students will be back in their classrooms, overlooking the beautiful views of the light blue Atlantic,” said James K. McDonald, Project Manager and Architectural Designer at OBMI.
OBMI is an architectural firm with a deep expertise designing for the world’s most storied destinations. With several prominent local architects in the British Virgin Islands and a long tradition of work and community in the BVI, it is thrilled to be a part of the redesign and reconstruction efforts.
