Concept master plan design and new Conditional Use Permit for a Montessori School campus at a12-acre fallow site.
In support of local planning guidelines, which – and fostering urban agriculture – the design proposes an integration of school functions and an agricultural based landscape. Montessori education programs around gardening and outdoor exploration form a guiding theme – to be supported and enhanced.
The campus is organized around a central courtyard with generous and neighborly orchard buffers at the site perimeter.
Library, offices and vine-covered trellises flank the tree-shaded parking lot providing a civic entry to the campus.
A multi-purpose barn and plaza will host all-school gatherings as well as daily activities including theater, music, gymnastics, indoor sports and farming programs.
An uplifting Montessori inspired color palette unifies groupings of buildings. Trellises, cubbies, and benches activate the building exteriors.
In the spirit of resource preservation, aged modular classrooms are adaptively re-used, refurbished and enhanced – saving time and money.
