General Omar Bradley Elementary School, Thomas J. Devlin Educational Theater and Music/Science Add.

Classroom spaces shouldn’t limit curious minds.  When well-designed, they do more than simply house the learning process—they enable it. 
Students of General Omar Bradley Elementary School are experiencing this firsthand with their new science, art and music wing, which features a 60-seat digital-projection planetarium. This military campus has an exceptionally high student turnover rate of 60 percent each year, so the school strives to make each student’s experience a rich encounter. 
The result is a unique, energetic space that serves as a creative catalyst for students and teachers. It is an interactive environment designed to evolve along with the educational curriculum and students’ imaginations. 
Challenges of this project included incorporating unique technology additions, along with interior remodels throughout the school year, with minimal impact on school operations. Special designs and systems required additional attention to tolerance and phasing, especially regarding the planetarium.
The planetarium itself is a round structure, adorned with cast stone and natural limestone cardinal compass points—symbolically emphasizing the role of education in finding one’s sense of direction.

“This building appeals to the senses and curiosity of children. Once inside, how could
you not want to learn?”–2008 jury

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