Core design methods/Execution:
At the heart of an effective Montessori school is a holistic learning environment, not just the classroom. Our goal is to create a campus that fosters wholesome experiences for children and staff members alike, as well as an environment that has a strong connection with the natural environment. The design team focused on designing spaces which blurred the intersection between inside and outdoors. This theme can be seen throughout the master plan, which reflects the intrinsic values of the Montessori methodology and creates an effective learning environment.
-Flexibility was the ultimate driver behind the decisions that influenced the design.-
The open plan of each classroom creates a learning environment that accommodates choice. While the spaces are well suited to group activity, conversely the space can also be configured for more solitary actives, where a student can settle-in alone. Each classroom has ample natural light and a view to courtyard space programmed into the voids of the plan, allowing a student to have visual relief from any given task.
Each classroom type is uniquely suited to the needs of its students. Preschool rooms feature low sinks, chairs, and tables; reachable shelves; and child-sized kitchen equipment—elements that allow independence and help develop motor skills. Upper-level classrooms reflect design techniques that match the childrens’ intellectual development and physical size. The overarching goal is to empower the student.
The master plan is laid out in a shape that resembles a abstracted boomerang, this shape by nature focuses on the “center” or the heart of the project. In the ‘focus’ or center of the project are the courtyard spaces, spaces that define this project. These voids represent an important aspect of the Montessori education, which is the relationship between in and outdoors, the relationship should be powerful and the transition gradual. This plan activates the outdoors as a viable learning environment. This allows the children to experience the nuisances of the seasons, making the occupants aware of natural world rather that sheltered form it.
Defining the courtyard space form the public areas are thick adobe walls which contribute to the idea of autonomy within limits. Administration is located on the west side of the plan, which has several advantages. Administration acts as the buffer between the public realm and the educational realm. This is important for security purposes, to be able to easily control who comes on and off the campus.
Our design team has worked closely with the teaching staff and members of the community to gain a deep understanding of how to create an effective learning environment. Phase 1 represents this collaboration, phase 2 will strengthen and reinforce what has been started.