Orting Elementary School
As the primary full-time designer during the Schematic Design phase, I led the development of spatial concepts and layouts that prioritize environmental integration and community identity. Collaborating closely with the NAC Architecture team, I translated the project's vision into tangible design strategies that respect both the natural site and the town's heritage.
Team
NAC Architecture
Scope
Pre-Design to Schematic Design
Timeline
1 Year
Client
Orting Elementary School
Orting Elementary School is envisioned as a learning environment that harmoniously integrates with its natural surroundings. Situated adjacent to protected wetlands, the design emphasizes a seamless connection between the built environment and the pristine landscape, reflecting the cultural essence of Orting, Washington.
Highlights
Nature Integration: Building wings are oriented to blend with the surrounding wetlands, creating an open and inviting campus layout.
Cultural Reflection: Design elements draw inspiration from local architectural vernacular, fostering a sense of familiarity and pride among residents.
Flexible Learning Spaces: Classrooms and common areas are designed to be adaptable, supporting diverse teaching methods and learning styles.
Sustainability: Emphasis on natural lighting, ventilation, and materials that reduce environmental impact.
Through interviews, site analysis, and co-creation workshops with students, teachers, and community members, we mapped out user journeys to identify moments of frustration and barriers to learning, collaboration, and comfort — turning user insights into actionable design priorities.
Conceptual design sketch illustrating the core idea of the project: a dynamic, flexible learning environment that maintains a direct visual and spatial connection to the surrounding natural landscape. This vision guided the architectural layout and experiential flow of the school.
Site plan emphasizing environmental integration, with the building footprint nestled within the landscape and carefully oriented around preserved wetlands.
Cultural and architectural precedent studies from the region informed materiality, roof forms, and vernacular proportions in the design.
entral courtyard view showcasing the school’s biophilic strategy—connecting indoor spaces with nature and community through layered transparency and landscaping.
A welcoming entry sequence that anchors the building within the community while supporting safety, movement, and informal gathering.
Daylit library space offering framed views of Mount Rainier—designed as a contemplative learning environment deeply connected to place.
Collaborative learning commons at the heart of the building, designed for flexibility, interaction, and student ownership of space.
Upper-level breakout space encouraging group work, informal teaching, and transparency across age groups and disciplines.
This project reinforced my commitment to designing educational spaces that are both environmentally responsive and culturally resonant. By embedding the school within its natural context, we aimed to create a nurturing environment that enhances learning and community connection.