William F. Fox Elementary School
Richmond, Virginia
Square Footage
58,000 SF
Building Type
K–12 Education
Project Type
Historic Reconstruction
Team
Architect-led
Services Provided
Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing Design,
Construction Administration, Commissioning
Overview
Historic reconstruction of a 55,500-square-foot elementary school in Richmond, Virginia. Founded in 1911, the school was tragically destroyed by fire. The project represents a complete rebuild that honors the school's historic legacy while delivering a modern, efficient facility adapted for contemporary educational needs. Thompson Consulting Engineers provided full mechanical, electrical, and plumbing design services.
Challenges
- Providing efficient MEP systems while preserving the historic integrity and architectural character of the building.
- Accommodating new HVAC and electrical systems within limited historic envelope space.
- Integrating modern fire protection, technology, and energy-efficient systems within the constraints of a historic reconstruction.
Goals
- Design high-efficiency HVAC systems that fit within the limited space available in the historic building envelope.
- Integrate energy-efficient lighting and controls with the architectural design.
- Coordinate modern life-safety, fire protection, and technology systems with the overall reconstruction effort.
Project Team
- Owner: Richmond Public Schools
- Architect: Quinn Evans
- Structural Engineer: Dunbar
- Civil Engineer: Ratchet Design
- AV, Network and Security Consultant: Shen Milsom & Wilke, LLC
- Fire Protection Engineer: Setty & Associates
- Food Service Consultant: Foodservice Consultants Studio
- General Contractor: Gulf Seaboard
Results
- Delivered a resilient, future-ready building systems design that supported the safe and efficient reconstruction of the school following a major loss.
- Improved comfort, indoor air quality, and safety for students and staff.
- Modernized the building's infrastructure while respecting the historic character of the original school.
- 2026 ACEC Virginia Engineering Excellence Awards – Honor Award
