Harley Ellis Devereau

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Size: 2,700 sf

Services: Architecture, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering

Project Description: Situated in a solid 1950s concrete frame structure, this private elementary and middle school is a hidden beauty. As part of a phased approach to renovating the entire campus, the school challenged the design team to remodel three of the 50-year old classrooms. The team designed the classrooms using the same concept, giving each a unique identity through carefully orchestrated color arrangements, but still providing the same learning opportunities. The new colorful elements are grouped in a clearly defined ‘zone of learning ’that is inserted into the existing, neutrally toned space. The exposed raw concrete ceiling is placed into a sharp contrast to colored and refined ceiling and wall panels. An approach that also allows for the concrete mass to act as a thermal mass, absorbing heat during the day and releasing it a night through natural ventilation. The inherent structural and material qualities of the existing structure are expressed alongside the new installations. By revealing the physics of how a structure is put together and held up, the building itself becomes a three dimensional teaching tool. The design includes zoning that allows for flexible teaching and side project activities. Each classroom incorporates “smart board” and state of the art projection technology, as well as advanced lighting controls to switch easily between projection and teaching mode. Other unique teaching elements include display cases in windows that exhibit student projects to the entire campus, as well as light boxes with effect glass that create reflections that spark curiosity and can be used by the teacher to tell a story or conduct a lesson on light and color. Sustainable design elements include using natural materials like linoleum and wood and a high performance acoustic ceiling with reflection and absorption panels.

Client: Corpus Christi Parish

Publications: Learning By Design, 2008