Robert Gray Elementary School

Set on a basalt rock ridge within a community whose heritage is interwoven with the local timber and aluminum industries, this dynamic school is specifically designed for its surroundings. Wood pilasters, with aluminum detail, reach up to a framework of intricate wood members, rich color and high scale. The classroom façade elements project into lobby space in treehouse fashion. The theme of wood and aluminum proceeds throughout the school in the articulation of windows, doors and frames.
Every space opens off the entry hall, making it the heart of the school. This layout allows for one-glance supervision. Common spaces lie here and are flanked by a corridor on either side. This keeps a school built for 600 feeling small because students, at most, must walk half the length of the corridor to reach any necessary area.
Emphasis was given to the individual classroom. As the educational curriculum changes, this dynamic space can adapt quickly. Strategically located casework and operable walls between classrooms create flexible spaces. Cleverly located at one end, it provides the space to instruct both classes, creates a large-group wet-project area and more.

Photographer: ©Chris J. Roberts

Additional Information

Other projects from this professional

Storm Lake Early Elementary School

Drawing inspiration from nature, Storm Lake Early Elementary School invites outdoor activities...

Boys Town Education Center

Design team Vanessa Schutte, AIA, ALEP (DLR Group Principal and K-12 Education Leader) Since...

Liberty High School

Liberty High School is an inviting campus centered on three academic concepts:...

North Kansas City Schools Early Education Center

The North Kansas City Schools Early Education Center is home to nearly...

Load more