Picture courtesy of © BLRB

University Place Primary Replacement
University Place, WA

Contract $: 16,869,657
Contract Date: May 2007
Project Manager: Scott Babbit

Owner: University Place School District No.83
Architect: BLRB

As a replacement facility to the existing elementary school, the two-story, 56,000 square foot building will reside on the school's current playfields. This enables new on-site construction while maintaining operation of the existing facility, and optimizes views of the surrounding landscape. Roof forms and building massing are modulated to match the scale of surrounding residential buildings, and the use of masonry veneer at the base and other key locations provides an appropriate monumental feeling without overpowering elementary school students.

Design emphasis centers on creating four small learning communities within the school and a central, shared group-learning space to enable increased curriculum and classroom connections. Environmental education is enhanced by outdoor learning patios on the main floor. To uphold the nearly century-old traditions of the school, historical elements from the old building including a 1940s school bell, wood teachers' parlor door and original brick with be retained, while historic photos will be displayed throughout. Student and professional artwork also will be incorporated into the design.