the PLAINEDGE HIGH SCHOOL COMMONS

When the Plainedge Public Schools Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Edward Salina, Jr. set out to reimagine the student experience, their vision was clear: deliver an environment equipped with the modern amenities today’s learners deserve. At MDS, we thrive on partnerships like these—collaborating closely with our clients to transform vision into reality through design that is imaginative, purposeful, and enduring.

The result is The Commons—a transformative, multi-functional space that goes far beyond traditional expectations. Designed to mirror the feel of a contemporary college campus, The Commons offers a range of seating options tailored to individual student needs:

·        Booths encourage small group collaboration and social interaction

·        The Quiet Café supports students who prefer to eat and study in a more focused setting

·        A Refuel Counter provides a quick option for students on the move

·        USB-C and electrical charging stations are available at every booth and counter

A landscaped, fenced outdoor dining area extends the experience beyond the building—inviting fresh air, fostering well-being, and promoting mental health.

But this is more than just a dining hall. With the push of a button, the space seamlessly transforms into a fully equipped Lecture Hall, powered by a state-of-the-art Crestron AV system.

·        Motorized projection screens, LED displays, and integrated audio-visual technology support instruction and presentations

·        Motorized shades manage glare in the sunlit addition

·        Zoned speakers and wireless microphones ensure clarity for every student in lecture mode

·        In ambient mode, background music fosters a calm, inviting atmosphere

This forward-thinking design reflects the district’s commitment to student success—and sets a new standard for how schools can reimagine communal spaces to support learning, wellness, and innovation.