WEBSTER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Fresno, California

Sited within an inner-city location of older residential structures, the existing school campus contained a multi-purpose building, a six-classrooom pod building, and several daycare buildings, with remaining operations housed in portable units.  The expansion program includes new adminstrative offices, classrooms, and a multi-media library.

Low lines of light aqua raised seam metal roofing set on off-white exterior walls harmonize with the single family residences along the surrounding street.  Designed as a single building for security and compactness, the triangular footprint of the new structure set inside the existing campus plan realigns movement within the complex.  An open trellis constructed of suspended pipes greets visitors and anchors a unifying directional spine that transverses the site.  Built-in gardens with raised planters create landscaped areas for socializing, gathering and group activities.

Lit by a central skylight, administrative offices introduce visitors to the campus and monitor entrance to the facility.   Glass partitions within these spaces allow both principal and vice principal to view corridors, commons areas, and playground.  Curved walls offer a nurturing and friendly environment for young occupants while providing a gentle hospitable image to neighbors.  Library and kindergarten rooms occupy round corners, with classrooms and restrooms situated between.  The maintenance department operates from a separate, centrally located office with ample storage and easy access to equipment and materials.

By design, spaces within the school encourage learning, teaching, study, and socialization.   Introduction of outdoor lighting through skylights keeps children in touch with the time of day and changes in the weather, while avoiding distractions from ground level activities.  Curved ceilings reflect light from fixtures without glare or shadows.  Carefully selected colors and textures relax students and stimulate mental activity in psychologically diverse yet tranquil interiors.   The result is a bright, uplifting environment for children, teachers, and surrounding community.