Designing for the Changing Face of Education
Download PDFCan a school’s culture be designed?
by Paul Bunton
Our system of education is changing, and the "face" of students themselves is among the most significant of changes. No place illustrates this trend better than California, where more than 70 percent of K-12 students comprise minority groups. School design can be tailored to be culturally-responsive by being more personal to these students and inviting parents to actively participate, helping to keep both students and parents engaged.
To design Downer Elementary School, BCA Architects worked closely with the surrounding Latino community to create a design that has cultural meaning for the neighborhood and students. The elementary school is inviting to the surrounding neighborhood with its plaza and palm courtyard, as well as after-hours community use. The school is also secure both inside and out, with four separate play yards for different ages. The design exceeds Title 24 requirements, with natural lighting reducing energy consumption. This sustainable thinking extended to encompass support of local trades through an emphasis on wood construction and detailing.
by Paul Bunton
Our system of education is changing, and the "face" of students themselves is among the most significant of changes. No place illustrates this trend better than California, where more than 70 percent of K-12 students comprise minority groups. School design can be tailored to be culturally-responsive by being more personal to these students and inviting parents to actively participate, helping to keep both students and parents engaged.
To design Downer Elementary School, BCA Architects worked closely with the surrounding Latino community to create a design that has cultural meaning for the neighborhood and students. The elementary school is inviting to the surrounding neighborhood with its plaza and palm courtyard, as well as after-hours community use. The school is also secure both inside and out, with four separate play yards for different ages. The design exceeds Title 24 requirements, with natural lighting reducing energy consumption. This sustainable thinking extended to encompass support of local trades through an emphasis on wood construction and detailing.
