Watertown-Mayer Elementary School
Watertown, Minnesota
Designed to support the district’s vision to provide flexible, adaptable and integrated learning while recognizing the identity and history of nearby communities, this school integrates innovative educational design with respect for the local community and environment.
The architect organized the school into neighborhoods to form small learning communities for grades 1 to 5. The flexible setting enables teachers to deliver instruction in a variety of ways. Learners are able to succeed based upon individual learning styles. The plan’s openness and visibility enhance safety and security. The design also celebrates the surrounding landscape; each academic wing has its own identity (farmland, wetland, woodland, prairie).
Designed to achieve LEED silver certification, the facility uses sustainable design, including a geothermal well system, promoting water and energy efficiency, managing stormwater, and using regional materials and resources. Daylighting is provided to most of the learning spaces, and state-of-the-art, high-efficiency mechanical systems are used to bring fresh air into each classroom. Optimizing the energy performance of the building and its systems is projected to result in a 40-percent savings in energy costs.
“Nicely detailed and kid-friendly. Simple, cost-effective details. Inside/outside connection.”–2008 jury
Additional Information
Capacity
600
Cost per Sq Ft
$184.00
Citation
Elementary School Citation
Featured in
2008 Architectural Portfolio
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