Outdoor Classrooms by Doty and Sons
Doty & Sons recently manufactured and installed a total of 22 benches functioning as outdoor classrooms to Neuqua Valley High School in Naperville IL. Transforming a previously empty, unused space, into a beautiful outdoor learning experience was the challenge. We were able to deliver!
Campus benches (Product # B56962418) installed on previously unused patio space. Shown in graphite finish.
The Challenge
Creating a safe environment for students to learn in has become one of the many challenges brought on by the COVID 19 pandemic. A great way to do this is to create an area where students can enjoy their learning experience outdoors and at a safe distance.
At Doty & Sons we offer a variety of products for this type of project. Starting with the meticulous design of our products, through the casting and finishing process, our products provide beauty and functionality.
Four Outdoor Classroom Scalene Benches (Product #B483420) shown in graphite finish.
Vision and Design
The staff at Neuqua Valley High School consulted with Doty & Sons to produce and install benches for their campus in Naperville IL. The vision was to transform an unused patio and lawn space, into a safe learning environment. Our sales team was able to provide a wide range of options for them.
Since our inception in 1948, we have been able to adapt to the ever changing design styles throughout the years. Because of this we were able to provide them with some unique options that highlight the art of concrete design, with the functionality they desired.
Products Used
One of our most unique benches is our Scalene Triangle Bench. Originally designed as an architectural feature, this now can function as a bench for an outdoor classroom. The Neuqua Valley staff chose to install eight of these throughout their lawn area. This unique layout and design, provides an artistic, eloquent feel to their newly designed space. Their students are now able to enjoy the art of concrete design while also learning safely outdoors.
Closeup view of one of the eight Scalene Triangle Benches installed.
Filling and organizing a large space was the challenge associated with the patio design and installation. Our large campus benches were just the item to complete this task. At 96 inches long and 18 inches high, these 1800 pound benches are big and beautiful! Shown surrounding our round campus bench, this set is durable and low maintenance.
Four Campus Benches (B56962418) surrounding one Round Campus Bench (Product # B5726)
In order to diversify the design, our team recommended the installation of three Socratic Benches setup on one end of the patio. Surrounding the round campus bench again, these curved benches highlight the diverse product line we create and offer at Doty & Sons.
Three Socratic Benches (Product # B5921) shown surrounding our Round Campus Bench (Product # B5726) on the left
The Result
Starting as the sun began to rise at 06:00 AM, our installation team was able to begin the transformation. Shown below prior to installation, the existing space was a bit bare and needed some updating.
By 12:00 PM our team had completed installation of 22 benches throughout the patio and lawn areas. Set to exact specifications from the Neuqua Valley team, these areas now house 5 outdoor learning spaces.
Patio area shown completely installed
Eight Scalene Benches shown on lawn area post installation
The diverse products we offered and installed, accentuate the unique options, durability and beauty that concrete can offer. Consultation upon completion with the Neuqua Valley team was a huge success. They loved the unique design and space transformation. We all agreed that these would be a fixture on their campus for many years to come.
You can explore all of our bench designs and outdoor classroom options on our main website and specific product details using the links below. We can’t wait for our next challenge!
Outdoor Classroom Desk & Seat – Doty Concrete
Outdoor Classroom Lectern – Doty Concrete
