Sheldon Lake Elementary School emerged from a districtwide initiative to roll out specialized learning programs to each of their six elementary schools. As one of two campuses with a focus on Performing and Visual Arts (PVA), the goal for this new school of choice was to provide an open learning environment that celebrates the unique activities happening within its walls and uses student interests to excite them about learning.
The design team partnered with the district to approach every aspect through the lens of PVA. Iconic features known as “drums” house the PVA programs, including a Blackbox theater, and art, music, dance, and design studios. These colorful drums serve as anchors informing the building organization and orienting students as they move through the school. The two-story building has an interesting and free-flowing organization, where the theater, dining, and library spaces don’t have walls but still have their own core. The facility also offers several visual and physical connections to an exterior courtyard space where students can interact with nature.
While research indicates that an arts-centered curriculum is beneficial to language and reading development, the school also fills community amenity gaps by providing performance, gathering, and shared green spaces.
Sheldon Lake Elementary School
Category
Early Childhood School/Elementary School
Description
Project Location:
Houston, TX
Architecture Firm
Stantec
Austin,Texas
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Photography By:
Luis Ayala
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