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Saddle River Day School Names DIGroup Architecture as Architect of Record for Academic Building

Once completed, the 32,000SF state-of-the-art academic building will include new instructional spaces across 13 classrooms, 5 small group instruction rooms, which include three specialty learning spaces and four science labs.

DIGroup Architecture (DIG) has been selected to design the new Hall of Science & Entrepreneurship at Saddle River Day School in Saddle River, NJ. This appointment underscores DIG’s expertise in designing innovative and inspiring learning environments, from PK-12 settings to higher-education colleges and universities across New Jersey, New York and Philadelphia.

“We had the privilege of working with DIG on the design of our new hall of science and entrepreneurship, and the experience was nothing short of exceptional,” said Jalaj Desai, head of school. “From the very beginning, their team demonstrated an impressive level of professionalism, ensuring that every detail of the project was handled with care and precision.”

As part of Saddle River Day School’s Building the Future Campaign, the Hall of Science & Entrepreneurship will serve as a cutting-edge facility for fostering scientific exploration, critical thinking and an entrepreneurial spirit among students. DIG is spearheading the architectural design, planning and oversight of the design and construction process to ensure an exceptional and enriched student, faculty and visitor experience. The hall is the focal point of a capital enhancement campaign that also includes the addition of a new turf field and expanded parking.

“We are thrilled to partner with Saddle River Day School on this exciting project that will serve as an important cornerstone of the school’s beautiful 25.5-acre suburban campus,” said Jeffrey Venezia, principal at DIG. “The entire DIG team is committed to creating modern spaces that support student success and innovation while enriching the entire academic and social experience for all. We look forward to collaborating with the entire school community, from school leadership and faculty to students and parents.”

DIG’s Education Studio has a proven record of accomplishment in designing successful, award-winning educational facilities that meet the evolving needs of student users and educators alike. The firm’s expertise in creating collaborative learning spaces, incorporating sustainable design elements and utilizing the latest technology will be instrumental in the development of the Hall of Science & Entrepreneurship.

“DIG’s creativity truly brought our vision to life. The firm team’s ability to balance aesthetic appeal with functional design resulted in a space that not only meets the needs of our students and faculty but also inspires innovation and learning,” said Desai. “The design is both forward-thinking and timeless, capturing the essence of our school's mission while creating a welcoming and dynamic environment. What truly set them apart was their flexibility and collaborative spirit.”

DIG was uniquely qualified to take on the challenge of creating the ultra-modern Hall of Science & Entrepreneurship. Initially founded to deliver school-focused projects that support community impact, the firm’s Education Studio continues to break ground with high-performance, sustainable solutions that address the unique, ever-evolving needs within the academic sector.

“Throughout the project, the DIG team remained open to our ideas, adapting to changes and challenges with ease and grace,” added Desai. “Their commitment to understanding our needs made the entire process seamless and enjoyable. They were always approachable, responsive and a pleasure to work with.”

Once completed, the 32,000SF state-of-the-art academic building will include new instructional spaces across 13 classrooms, 5 small group instruction rooms, which include three specialty learning spaces and four science labs. These new instructional spaces will help support advanced math and sciences courses such as physics, engineering and advanced placement offerings; AI Discovery; robotics; a financial lab; Coaching Academy and Saturday STEAM bootcamps. The hall also will house faculty offices; an upper-school commons; open, multi-use collaboration and social spaces and a new admissions center.