HEAD IN THE CLOUD

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Location: Alpharetta, GA

Size: 23,500 sq. ft.

Stories (Total stories): 2 (2)

Year built: New construction

Occupancy type: Institutional

Concept

This highly experimental project is inspired by surrealism

The creative and fascinating environment creates a playful atmosphere and lets the students enjoy their school life.

Client

The client is Excelsior Academy. It is a private school for grade K-5 students with disabilities. The types of disabilities include ADD/ADHD, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and other difficulties with reading, writing, and arithmetic.

Project Description

In the modern era, elementary schools have become a more interesting and productive environment than in the past. Organically shaped walls, which is also preferable for safety reasons, demonstrate the concept. Comfortable furniture, nooks, and color-changing light bulbs are used to create a productive environment. The color of the light can be adjusted based on color theories. For example, to create a more focused environment, the lights can be changed to green or orange.

This demonstrates the transition from a regular angled wall to an organically shaped wall. It minimizes the number of sharp edges to create a safe space for children. The concept of surrealism is integrated into the final product.

Reading Nook

The reading nooks were designed for children with problems focusing. The area has different heights in different locations to create a cozy and easy-tofocus environment for children with physical disabilities. It also has small colorchanging lights that can be changed as needed.

Kindergarthen Classroom

The curved wall provides a separation between the “space to study” and the “space to rest or play.” To reduce distractions, lockers and hangers are placed behind the curved wall.