Our “Decarbonize Your Design Challenge” award-winning elementary school provides new model for future school designs
Working with Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS), we continue to plan and design for next generation learning. LCPS’s new Elaine E. Thompson school showcases the learning within and establishes a new prototype design for LCPS’s elementary schools. With design projects for two new elementary schools running simultaneously—but with two different architects—an opportunity to collaborate was presented. We worked with the other architecture firm, attending design charrettes to brainstorm and devise the best site-specific layout options that could be used for both new elementary schools.
Inside, classes are organized in pods for each grade cluster with collaboration spaces in each pod to support project-based learning. For safety and security, the pods can be locked down individually.
While learning is the priority, sustainability and efficiency are important too. The project was designed to meet VA-Collaborative for High Performance Schools and Energy Star standards, and we project a 65.5 per cent reduced carbon footprint thanks to energy conscious decisions made during the design process.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- Loudoun County Public Schools
- Award
- Decarbonize Your Design Challenge, ENERGY STAR Best Project, Commercial New Construction, 2021
Steve Stotler, Associate
The success of a project is ultimately driven by the end user and how well the project functions for them.
Katharine Land, Senior Interior Designer
I believe that we can improve the daily experience of end users by providing unexpected yet inspiring spaces.
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