Nestled against the backdrop of Mt. Rainier and integrated into a walkable residential neighborhood, Expedition Elementary School was envisioned as both a place of learning and a community hub. The form of the building draws inspiration from a bird’s nest—protective, welcoming, and alive with potential. Like a nest, the school shelters its students while empowering them to grow.
The district emphasized seven core values unique to this project: belonging, connection, efficiency, empowerment, welcome, brightness, and openness. These principles guided every design decision, from form to materiality.
The central planning concept, a nest-like structure encircling a courtyard, responds directly to these values. It creates an inward-facing heart for the school that offers safety, clarity, and connection to nature. This courtyard supports informal gathering, outdoor learning, and additional circulation paths, anchoring the project both spatially and symbolically.
Input from educators led to the adoption of L-shaped classrooms that support small group learning and in-classroom services. Shared learning areas and inclusive restrooms are strategically placed in angled junctions of the plan, creating an inclusive, student-centered environment.
Strategic use of angles in the plan unlocks non-programmed opportunities for learning and gathering without adding excess square footage.
