Unity Elementary School
Sioux City, Iowa
Schools often are nostalgic brick boxes designed by adults for adults. This school was designed for imaginative children who are not confined by straight lines and dull colors. It features a variety of shapes, colors, materials and textures. The core spaces were designed for anticipated expansion.
A cooperative community effort involving the school district and the city (which participated in the cost and planning) was required. Coordination with the district, city, civil engineers, architects, adjoining property owners, and separate site and building contractors had to be orchestrated carefully to meet schedules and co-occupy the same site.
The colors, shapes and textures of the various materials not only gave the building a unique look, but also lowered costs and enhanced the speed of construction. Comparative schools built simultaneously in the district cost 25 percent more and had construction periods three to four months longer.
“An inspiring, inviting space for students.”–2009 jury
Additional Information
Cost per Sq Ft
$102.00
Citation
Bronze Citation
Featured in
2009 Educational Interiors
Interior category
Common Areas
Other projects from this professional
Grand Island Public Schools, Career Pathways Institute
The Career Pathways Institute was designed to aid in preparing motivated high...
Northwestern College, Wellness Center, Rowenhorst Student Center
This project was the final phase of Northwestern College’s vision to renovate...
Unity Elementary
Many schools are nostalgic brick boxes designed by adults for adults. This...
Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center, Betty Strong Encounter Center
The Betty Strong Encounter Center is the second facility developed by Missouri...
Load moreProduct suppliers specified
AS&U Design Competitions
The ultimate tribute to education design excellence. If selected for publication, this distinctive...
Have an exceptional project that deserves national recognition? Want to show your best work to the...
