48+ Years of Experience in Architecture, Urban Design, & Interior Design
450+ Professionals
500+ K-12 Schools
300+
Campus Master Plans
Experts in:
Master Planning
21st Century K-12 Design
Sports & Recreation
LEED & Sustainable Design
Branding
Creating Places
Specialty Services:
40+ 21st Century Schools
Zoning & Approval Processes
Interior Design
3D Visualization
50+ Independent Schools
175+ Sustainable & LEED® Projects
Stratus is a multidisciplinary firm specializing in architecture, interior design, master planning, and engineering. Built on the union of deeply rooted firms and recognized industry leaders, we bring together broad expertise and a robust talent pool to deliver comprehensive end-to-end solutions. Serving public and private clients across Civic, Commercial, Industrial, Transportation, Education, and Government sectors, we approach every project—whether a targeted renovation or large-scale infrastructure—with precision, insight, and purpose. Stratus designs spaces that work, last, and make an impact.
Stratus is a collaborative practice of master planners, architects, interior designers, and engineers who offer a comprehensive collection of services to clients at every phase of a project. Our holistic approach to design takes into account the interrelationship of a project and its environment, as well as the practical realities of project development.
Our integrated approach ensures seamless collaboration between disciplines, resulting in efficient and cost-effective solutions. Whether it’s a small-scale renovation or a large-scale infrastructure project, our team possesses the technical expertise and industry knowledge to deliver projects on time and within budget. We are passionate about sustainable design and strive to incorporate environmentally friendly practices into every project.
We strive to create enduring designs that are iconic yet contextual, incorporate the latest in design thinking, are sustainable climatically, and stand the test of time aesthetically. Our team creates authentic environments specific to each community by providing design solutions for livable places with diverse populations, cultural amenities, and economic vitality.
Our extensive portfolio includes educational, mixed-use, retail, lifestyle, entertainment, hospitality, commercial, governmental, multifamily residential, aviation, and transportation facilities throughout the United States, the Caribbean, South America, Europe and Asia.
Stratus’ foundation relies on the principles of enhancing the communities in which we live and work and developing personnel through an investment in their professional growth. Our story is one of thoughtful growth—built on trust, aligned values, and a shared commitment to excellence.
EDUCATION MARKET SECTORS
EDUCATIONAL DESIGN
Stratus is a multidisciplinary leader in educational facility design, delivering innovative, sustainable, and future-ready environments for K-12 schools, colleges, and universities. Our education practice is built on decades of experience and a deep understanding of how learning spaces shape academic achievement, social development, and community engagement.
Our exceptional experience in school planning and design provides our team with in-depth expertise aligning developmental objectives, safety concerns and the physical design of school facilities. To date, this experience comprises well over one billion square feet of K-12 facility construction, including programming, campus planning, prototype development and interior design services, as well as traditional architectural services, historic rehabilitation and construction supervision. Our specialization in inventing curriculums, writing educational specifications and programming provides practical knowledge of curriculum objectives, facilitates quick and responsive design solutions, and provides intimate insight into how to create innovative, 21st century learning environments that respond to students’ and teachers’ needs while meeting our clients’ budget and scheduling demands.
Stratus is consistently ranked among the top educational design firms in the Southeastern U.S., recognized for our research-driven, student-focused solutions. Our work spans new construction, phased renovations on active campuses, campus master planning, prototype development, and historic rehabilitation. We have delivered more than 50 next-generation educational facilities in the past five years alone, and our phased construction expertise ensures minimal disruption to learning during upgrades or expansions.
We specialize in the creation of extraordinary schools, designed to foster innovative learning, where form follows function and pedagogy integrates with 21st century technology. The firm has been instrumental in assisting numerous schools in re-branding their organizations to be more flexible, modern, sustainable and student-centered through flagship projects which break the mold for innovation in the built learning environment.
As an educational and research organization at the forefront of 21st century school design, our team has responded to the rapid evolution of educational theory and the resultant impact on curriculum and facility planning. Our approach to campus planning and school design always begins with an open dialogue with school and community stakeholders and is always site and program specific.
Our designs create 21st Century Educational Environments with agile spaces able to accommodate all student-centered learning trends, differentiated learning, and multiple teaching modalities with movable, acoustically-sensitive walls, modular furniture and fully accessible rich technology for differentiated instruction. Through design, we have discovered innovative ways to craft student-focused facilities that foster collaboration, curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. Our schools feature blended learning environments with DaVinci Studios where the study of art and science come together, Living Exhibit Stations where the building and its features become teaching tools, and Discovery Boulevards for display, collaboration and discussion areas.
The educators are, of course, a key component to the success of a learning environment. As such, we have developed a 21st Century Educational Commissioning process to help leadership, faculty, administrators and facility personnel fully understand the impact and use of building components, to assist in the development of a flexible and dynamic curriculum and teaching approaches that incorporate the building features, and to enhance the 21st century pedagogy to create “Deep Learning.” Deep learning prepares students to be investigators and problem solvers, able to transfer what and how they learn from the curriculum into problem-based learning in outside-of-school life situations. It enables students to answer their own questions, to defend their own ideas, and to assess their own thinking and problem solving as self-directed thinkers. These students become aware of themselves and have learned how to learn, transforming deep learning into life-long learning.
As educational facility planners and designers, we have been national leaders in 21st century facility design and have partnered with DoDEA along with five of the largest school districts in the nation, Orange, Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach Counties and the New York City School Construction Authority, as well as several prestigious independent schools, to help create new programs and designs for both new and renovation projects. For example, in Palm Beach County,
EDUCATIONAL DESIGN
we designed Pine Jog Elementary School back in 2006, the first LEED Gold public school in the state with a “Building that Teaches,” as well as the first LEED Platinum school in Florida, Galaxy E3 Elementary, a flagship 21st Century project with a STEAM curriculum focused on Energy, the Environment and Engineering.
Our designs for these facilities allow educators to incorporate both the structure and the surroundings into the curriculum to help students learn environmental stewardship and the STEAM curriculum.
Our team is committed to the continuous pursuit of the best and most effective design solutions to help the students of tomorrow prepare for the future. We are active participants in professional educational design forums and conferences including the DoDEA Design Center, FEFPA and A4LE, where the latest and trends and focus of educational design is explored and developed. To enhance our understanding and as part of our 21st Century Commissioning process, we conduct post-occupancy reviews with our clients to constantly refine our designs. In addition, we are exploring new ways to expand upon the next generation of educational facility design; our new “Robust” learning environments incorporate discovery-based experiential learning experiences to complement 21st Century design. This new approach holds the promise of even higher student achievement through multi-modal learning involving all five senses. These robust spaces contain stimulating elements such as texture and sound to provide sensory anchors that aid student retention.
From our depth of experience in working with facilities departments we have developed an acute understanding of the requirements for timely performance, clear communications and standard procedures. We routinely work very closely with construction managers and are highly familiar with all delivery models. Communication, process focus, goal setting, team building and realistic time-lines are key elements of the Stratus approach to project delivery. Stratus is committed to creativity, to implementing the highest technology to facilitate that creativity, and to increasingly understanding our mission from the client’s point of view.
2025 ENR Top 500 Design Firm #214
FEFPA 2025 Architectural Showcase
First Place: Saddle View Elementary School (formerly West Acreage)
FEFPA 2025 Architectural Showcase
First Place: Innovation High School
FEFPA 2025 Architectural Showcase Award of Merit: Ammons Middle School
Florida AIA 2025 Award of Excellence
Citation Award: University of Miami Centennial Village
Jacksonville AIA 2025 Award of Merit
Bolles School Sanchez Center for Innovation
South Florida Busioness Journal
2023 Structure Awards
Best Public/Civic Project: University of Miami Centennial Village
National Association of College & University Food Services (NACUFS) 2025 Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards University of Miami Centennial Village
AIA Virginia 2025 Awards for Excellence in Architecture
Honorable Mention: University of Miami Centennial Village
FEFPA 2023 Architectural Showcase
First Place: K-8 / Combination /Middle Schools
Gulliver Academy Center For Student Life
FEFPA 2023 Architectural Showcase
First Place: Special Project
Miami Beach Hebrew Academy
South Florida Busioness Journal
2023 Structure Awards
Best Green Project: Gulliver Prep Center for Student Life
FEFPA 2022 Architectural Showcase
First Place: Best Special Facility in Florida
Belen Jesuit Preparatory School, The Roberto C. Goizueta Innovation Center
Hamilton Elementary School of Engineering and Technology
FEFPA 2018 Architectural Showcase
First Place: Best Middle School in Florida
Dr. Toni Bilbao Preparatory Academy
FEFPA 2018 Architectural Showcase
First Place: Best Special Facility in Florida
Miami Country Day School Center for the Arts
FEFPA 2018 Architectural Showcase
First Place: Best College in Florida
Palm Beach State College Dr. Dennis P. Gallon Campus
2018 Learning by Design Outstanding Project
PBSC Dr. Dennis P. Gallon Campus
2018 Learning by Design Outstanding Project
Welch Elementary School/Dover Air
Base Middle School Replacement
2017 27th Annual Tilt-Up
Achievement Award
All Aboard Florida Fort Lauderdale Station
2018 Irving Gill Progressive Architecture Award
Our Lady of Guadalupe
2017 Education Design Showcase
College Planning & Management
Palm Beach State College Dr. Dennis P. Gallon Campus
FEFPA 2018 Architectural Showcase
First Place: Best College in Florida
PBSC Dr. Dennis P. Gallon Campus
FEFPA 2018 Architectural Showcase
First Place: Best College in Florida
Palm Beach State College Dr. Dennis P. Gallon Campus
FEFPA 2017 Architectural Showcase Award of Merit
Wedgefield School
2016 Learning by Design Outstanding Project
Combined Level School
Plantation Key School
2016 26th Annual Tilt-Up Achievement Award
Our Lady of Guadalupe
2016 Merit Award of Excellence AIA Miami
Plan Z for Miami
2016 Design of the Year
Latin Builders Association
ParkSquare Aventura
BUILD Best Urban & Architectural
Design Firm: Eastern USA
BUILD Sustained Excellence
Award for Education Projects
2016 Learning by Design
Outstanding Project
Combined Level School
Maxwell Elementary-Middle School
2016 City Beautiful Award for Outstanding Restoration Project
Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce
Colombian Consulate
FEFPA 2016 Architectural Showcase
First Place: Downtown Doral
Charter Elementary School
FEFPA 2016 Architectural Showcase
First Place: Best College in Florida
Miami Dade College Hialeah Campus
2015 TCA Tilt-Up Achievement Award
Educational Division
Galaxy E3 Elementary School
SARA National 2015 Synergy Award
Midtown Miami
SARA National 2015 Award of Merit
El Dorado International Airport
USGBC SFL Gala Verde 2015
Most Outstanding LEED for Schools Project
Galaxy E3 Elementary School
AIA Miami Committee on the Environment
2015 COTE Honor Award
Galaxy E3 Elementary School
2015 Green Means Green CADET Award
Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce
Zyscovich Architects
2015 Award for Outstanding
Achievement: Restoration/Rehabilitation
Florida Trust for Historic Preservation
Miami High School
FEFPA 2015 Architectural Showcase
Award of Merit
Miami Dade College Student
Support Center
2014 Award of Excellence for Architecture
AIA Miami
Galaxy E3 Elementary School
2014 USGBC Gala Verde
Most Outstanding LEED for Homes
Low-Rise Multi-Family Project
North West Gardens II & IV
AIA Orlando 2014 Award of Merit
Florida’s Turnpike Service Plazas
CISCA 2013-2014 Gold Award
Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus
Student Support Center Lobby Wall
EDUCATIONAL AWARDS
FEFPA 2013 Architectural Showcase
First Place Award: Best Elementary School
Galaxy E3 Elementary School
FEFPA 2013 Architectural Showcase Award of Merit
Pine Crest Upper School
2013 AIANY/Center for Architecture
FitNation Exhibition Feature Project
Miami Dade College Wolfson
Campus Student Support Center
FEFPA 2012 Architectural Showcase Award of Merit
MAST @ Homestead High School
FEFPA 2012 Architectural Showcase Award of Merit
Westridge Middle School
2012 U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School
Pine Jog Elementary School
2012 Outstanding Design: High Schools
American School & University
Pine Crest Upper School
2012 Honorable Mention: Campus Building
Learning by Design
Pine Crest Upper School
FEFPA 2011 Architectural Showcase
First Place Award: Best Elementary School
Pine Crest Lower School
FEFPA 2011 Architectural Showcase
First Place Award: Best Middle School
FAU AD Henderson University School Addition
FEFPA 2011 Architectural Showcase
First Place Award: Best Elementary School
Pine Crest Lower School
FEFPA 2011 Architectural Showcase
First Place Award: Best Elementary School
FAU AD Henderson University School Addition
2011 Special Citation for Integrated Design Process
Sustainable Buildings Industry Council
Pine Jog Elementary School
2010 Honorable Mention Addition Project
School District of Palm Beach
County Foundation of Excellence
Village Academy
2010 Outstanding Project: Campus Buildings
Learning by Design
Pine Crest Lower School
2010 Outstanding Project:
Campus Master Planning
Learning by Design
Pine Crest School
2010 Green Building of the Year
Associated Builders & Contractors Association
Pine Jog Elementary School
SIGNIFICANT INDEPENDENT SCHOOL PROJECTS
PINE CREST LOWER SCHOOL CAMPUS
Boca Raton, FL
Our team provided master planning and programming services, along with a capital funding plan to the Pine Crest Schools, which have now been implemented. Pine Crest is pioneering a new direction for schools in the nation as one of the first entities to facilitate a project based learning methodology within the development of LEED certified campuses. The Boca Raton campus has been formed anew with the replacement of the school’s main Administration Building, a new Lower School building, a new Central Energy Plant and a redefined campus. The Lower School facilities were relocated to a central location within the campus to enhance protection of the youngest students and to place them in direct proximity to all of the school’s supporting program areas.
Learning opportunities abound in the new Lower School, innovative spaces such as classroom-like spaces in breezeway-porches, outdoor courtyards, and stairway teaching galleries. There are exterior areas dedicated for science, art, and media courts. These new exterior classrooms are revealed from the students’ desks - right outside the western facing covered walkway windows of the school. The mission of the school is to inspire in our young people academic, moral, social, aesthetic, and athletic principles, to be kindled by their state-of-the-art facilities. The buildings have been designed to make many of their environmental benefits obvious to the young occupants and teachers too-as the buildings themselves will teach.
• Cost: $17 M
• Completion Date: 2009
• Size: 59,873 SF
• Total Student Stations: 640
PINE CREST UPPER SCHOOL CAMPUS
Boca Raton, FL
The Pine Crest Upper School Campus was a traditional quad campus, and the site design maintains the quad configuration. The firm worked closely with school leadership to re-create and re-program the campus to incorporate 21st century educational philosophy and project-based learning pedagogy. The school’s curriculum is departmentalized, therefore student-centered learning must occur in the “in-between spaces.” These spaces are designed to support and encourage collaboration within the students’ flow, as they are talking, texting, listening to music, and on the computer with numerous windows open and the TV streaming.
A series of circulation spaces are organized in keeping with the formality of the existing Georgian-style architecture and are filled with opportunities for both individual and group gathering to accommodate the tight site constraints. These Learning Streets—corridors, niches, loggias, and a student union creating opportunities for socializing and learning—are equipped with seating, dry-erase walls and boards, and WiFi. Furniture is movable. Conversation and questioning occur everywhere, and the pursuit of curiosity is promoted throughout. The school is also rich in exterior learning opportunities, including social courtyards, terraces, loggias and a landscaped quad.
Certified LEED Silver, the building is designed to make many of its environmental benefits obvious to both students and teachers, as the buildings themselves teach through items such as interactive screens that give constant updates of the building’s energy consumption.
• Cost: $17.9 M
• Completion Date: 2011
• Size: 72,000 SF
• Total Student Stations: 840
MIAMI COUNTRY DAY SCHOOL
Miami, FL
The modernization of the Miami Country Day School campus began with a market and programming analysis to enable a historic elite private school to remain on the cutting edge of the educational market. Miami Country Day School has a unique approach to education which distinguishes it from other learning institutions. The School is founded on the development of the “whole child” based on the six pillars of character. The process of developing a program and master plan recognized the impact that the school’s learning approach and core beliefs on its curriculum and resulting facilities. Our team balanced this need to define a 21st Century educational facility program to satisfy the school’s learning mission while recognizing the desire for a sustainable design on a limited site and with fund raising challenges facing all private schools.
During the master planning process our team generated several master plan development scenarios based on the approved educational program. These scenarios defined a development vision of the campus to capture the unique learning community at this school. The new additions to the campus include a new Media Center and Center for Learning Resources, a new Center for the Arts, Performance Auditorium and parking garage, a new STEM Center, and expansion of the Athletic and Student Services Center.
• Total Student Stations: 1,350
• Center for Learning Resources Cost: $6.5 M; Size: 24,660 SF
• Center for the Arts & Parking Garage Cost: $23.9 M; Size: 43,515 SF & 116,000 SF Garage
• STEM Center Cost: Est. at $9.1 M; Size: 33,000 SF
• Athletic & Student Services Center Cost Est. at $11.5 M; Size: 38,750 SF
GULLIVER PREP CAMPUS MASTER PLANS & CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS
Pinecrest and Coral Gables, FL
Our team provided comprehensive master planning (including existing campus modernization and future expansion), campus visioning and programming services, along with a capital funding plan, feasibility analyses and existing condition assessments for both campuses.
Gulliver’s mission is to create an academic community devoted to educational excellence, with a personal touch, that fulfills each student’s potential. The master plan represents a collective commitment to remain at the forefront of teaching and learning well into the future.
The Prep (grades 9-12) master plan includes a new performing arts center, a regulation gymnasium and sports complex, existing classroom modernization, over 12,000 sf of new classroom space, the renovation and addition of common spaces including expanded outdoor courtyards, a new 17,000 sf “student commons” dining facility, new executive offices, and a parking garage. The preparatory school campus spans 14.9 acres.
GULLIVER PREP LOWER SCHOOL CENTER FOR STUDENT LIFE
Coral Gables, FL
The Center for Student Life was the first new building to be constructed as part of Gulliver’s comprehensive Master Plan. The new facility is the heart of student life and learning at the PK-8 Campus, and features a gymnasium, performing arts and assembly space, dining hall and meeting space, flexible labs, next generation classrooms, and more. The new “Gymnatorium”, which facilitates whole divisions to gather for games, performances, lectures, and celebration is a venue to engage the surrounding community with plays, musicals, exhibits and shared teaching opportunities. The plan also includes underground parking structure and the expansion of the dining facility and 21,000 SF of new classroom space.From robotics and engineering, to athletics and the arts, students are able to explore and combine their many interests, all in one building. The completion of the Center for Student Life was part of the school’s long-term plan to consolidate its three (formerly four) academic campuses into two campuses. Gulliver’s mission is to create an academic community devoted to educational excellence, with a personal touch, that fulfills each student’s potential.
• Cost: $35M
• Completion Date: 2022
• Size: 45,000 sf
• Students: 1,200
GULLIVER PREP UPPER SCHOOL ACADEMIC BUILDING
Pinecrest, FL
The Academic Building was the first building to open as part of the Upper School Campus’s Phase III of the comprehensive master plan. The new facility brought all of Gulliver’s Upper School students together onto one campus and provided a new home for many of its Signature Academic Programs. The Academic Building features modernized learning environments that foster collaboration and interdisciplinary learning and include innovative spaces for courses in Digital Mass Media, Engineering, International Business & Entrepreneurship, International Diplomacy & Legal Studies, and Architecture. A teacher planning space, large common areas, and cloud spaces for flexible teaching and learning were all included in the design. In addition, the building enhances the overall experience at athletic events because it includes a press box, concession stand, and increased spectator seating with 4,600 square feet of covered bleachers at its north side.
• Cost: $20M
• Completion Date: 2023
• Size: 21,500
• Students: 1,000
GULLIVER PREP GYM & GARAGE
Pinecrest, FL
The Athletic Center, Administrative Center and and Garage were the second and third buildings to open as part of the Upper School Campus’s Phase III of the comprehensive master plan. The new facility will give the exceptional student-athletes and coaches space to now practice and compete in the region’s premier athletic facility. Gulliver’s new 38,580-square-foot Athletic Center features an elevated indoor track, gymnasium, weight room, locker and training rooms, concessions and spirit store. The facility will be home to several sports teams, including the defending state champion girls’ volleyball team.
The addition of a Parking Garage to the Upper School Campus not only improved on-campus parking options but also provided a new home for 13,000 sf of Executive Offices onto campus which was formerly in rented space off campus. The new precast concrete parking garage was designed to accommodate 250 parking spaces with associated service and support areas. The innovative facade was designed to blend the facility into the Village of Pinecrest’s verdant residential neighborhood which surrounds the campus.
• Cost: $35M
• Completion Date: 2024
• Size: 38,500
• Students: 1,000
GULLIVER
PREP SCIENCE BUILDING,
DINING FACILITY, & ARTS & INNOVATION CENTER
Pinecrest, FL
The final phase of Gulliver Prep’s comprehensive master plan is the construction of a new Science Building, Dining Facility and Arts and Innovation Center. The 32,500 sf Science & Dining facility will house 12 state of the art Earth Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, and Marine Biology Labs, each with dedicated Lap Prep Rooms and all opening to 1,500 sf of student collaboration space. The ground floor dining facility/ student union will provide over 8,000 sf of student gathering and dining space supported by a new 3,000 sf state of the art kitchen designed in tandem with a renowned national food service provider. Sized to accommodate a single dining period for the entire Upper School, the new dining facility will allow for cross-grade interaction, more social choice reducing stress and isolation, whole school events and announcements, less complex scheduling and easier access to faculty.
The adjacent new 50,000 sf Arts and Innovation Center, will be home to Gulliver’s award-winning dance, theatre, and music programs. For the first time, all of the performing arts and fine arts students will be able to create, rehearse, and perform in the same space, further enhancing their already unparalleled programs. In addition to fine arts, theatre, dance, and band, the Center will house a 300-seat lecture hall, a black box theatre, multiple maker spaces, 10 new classrooms, and all of the above will open up to the 5,000 sf double height “Agora”, a full immersion performance and special event venue where students will foster new connections and bring the entire Gulliver community together to become immersed in the arts and innovation.
• Cost: +$80M
• Completion Date: 2027-8
• Size: 82,500 sf
• Students: 1,000
ST. BRENDAN HIGH SCHOOL MASTER PLAN & INNOVATION CENTER
Miami, FL
St. Brendan Catholic High School is a co-educational private Roman Catholic high school and is part of the Archdiocese of Miami. St. Brendan High School was converted to a co-educational school in 1975 with an enrollment of 346 students.
The overall objective was to develop a campus master plan which provides an engaged environment for students and faculty to learn, interact and participate in creative programs to enhance their educational experience in the pursuit of becoming life-long learners. The scope of the project included site master planning, program development and site plan approval process through the required County agencies for an existing 37+ acre parcel. The newly completed Innovation Center will help students grow in both self-awareness and the awareness of our complex and global world, becoming college and career ready in the 21st century through the use of the latest educational resources and cutting-edge technological tools available. and critical thinking, SBHS students will be poised to become the leaders of tomorrow. The iconic and prominent swooping building design communicates the institution’s new, 21st century brand to students, staff and the community, “slingshotting” them into their future careers. All construction materials are environmentally friendly, with recycled content and low-VOC finishes, low-flow fixtures, high-efficiency HVAC equipment, occupancy sensors, and LED lighting throughout.
• Cost: Innovation Center $7.5 M
• Completion Date: 2014 MP & 2016 Innovation Center
• Size: Innovation Center 27,000 SF
• Total Student Stations: 1,150
WESTMINSTER ACADEMY CAMPUS MASTER PLAN
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Our team provided campus planning (including existing campus analysis of expansion options for current and future development), campus visioning and programming services, along with full building design for the Phase 1 Expansion and future campus replacement / development. The expansion will encompass and faith-oriented center, academic and dining facility to centralize functions on the main campus in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. The master plan was developed in coordination with parametric programming outlining the plan for programmed expansion, site development and a preliminary approach to the campus’s new architectural identity including materials, character, massing, and design. The new master plan provides for a capital funding plan, donor outreach, feasibility analyses and existing condition assessment. All options were coordinated with the School Administration, Building and Grounds Committee and the Board of Trustees.
The new facility includes a central dining and multi-purpose space, collaboration student spaces for small group gathering, multi-disciplinary labs classrooms, teacher planning spaces and support areas. The new facility is planned as a phased replacement with relocated campus pool, expanded outdoor courtyards along with a planned new signature tower element capturing the spirit and new branding of the campus.
Centrally located, the facility is intended to primarily serve the upper grades, however, can also be utilized as a shared resource for the younger elementary grade levels. The designed massing, character and fenestration is intended to rebrand the campus and create a presence to the adjacent main highway. The new expansion facility will make a handsome addition to the campus and identify that Westminster is ready for the next generation.
• Cost: TBD
• Completion Date: TBD
• Size: 26 Acres
• Total Student Stations: 850
THE BOLLES SCHOOL CAMPUS PLANNING & CENTER FOR INNOVATION
Jacksonville, FL
Our team provided campus planning (including existing campus analysis of expansion options for current and future development), campus visioning and programming services, along with full building design. The new Center for Innovation was developed in coordination with parametric programming with the school’s selected construction manager outlining the plan for systems, materials, character, massing and design, along with a capital funding plan, donor outreach, feasibility analyses and existing condition assessments. All options were coordinated with the School Administration, Building and Grounds Committee and the School Board.
The new facility includes a central collaboration space with large, medium and small group gathering areas, multidisciplinary science labs, chemistry, biology and physical science / physics lab, along with general, math and science classrooms, teacher planning spaces and support areas. The new facility will include expanded outdoor courtyards and a terrace and balcony areas overlooking the St. John’s River. Centrally located, the facility is intended to primarily swerve the upper grades, however can also be utilized as a shared resource for the younger elementary grade levels.
The designed massing, character and fenestration is respectful of the existing historic campus, while presenting a modern and forward acting facade with familiar materials presented in a modern expression. The new facility will make a handsome addition to the campus and set the tone for current and future families that Bolles is ready for the next generation.
• Completion Date: 2024
• Size: 45,000 SF
• Total Student Stations: 825
ST. THERESA CATHOLIC SCHOOL NEW GYMNATORIUM & CLASSROOM BUILDING
Coral Gables, FL
Nestled amidst the vibrant Coral Gables community, St. Theresa School, a cornerstone of the Church of the Little Flower, has proudly served generations of students since 1924. With a focus on nurturing the “whole child” – intellectual, spiritual, physical, and social – the school fosters a learning environment steeped in Catholic values.
As technology and society evolve, St. Theresa School is committed to evolving too. In 2023, they embarked on an exciting project with our team to envision a brand-new multipurpose gym. This space, currently in the schematic design phase, goes beyond athletics, transforming into a vibrant hub for the performing arts and a valuable resource for classrooms.
The gym will host a variety of sports, fostering a spirit of teamwork and healthy competition. A dedicated stage will provide a platform for students to showcase their talents in plays, musicals, and other artistic endeavors. The flexible space will support classroom activities, creating a dynamic environment that fosters creativity and engagement.
This multipurpose space represents St. Theresa’s commitment to providing its 950 students, from prekindergarten to 8th grade, with exceptional learning and extracurricular opportunities. With its thoughtful design, the new gym will undoubtedly become a cherished gathering place for the entire school community.
• Size: 20,000 SF
• Cost: $10M
• Completion Date: 2027
• Student Stations: 950
BELEN JESUIT PREPARATORY SCHOOL, ROBERTO C. GOIZUETA INNOVATION CENTER
Miami, FL
The new state-of-the-art, 8,000 square foot Innovation Center offers a mix between traditional classroom, maker space, and science fiction lab. The Center includes spaces specifically designed for each state of creation: inspiration, experimentation, and synthesis. The STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Program gives students access to a large selection of tools varying from 3D printers and laser cutters to powerful computers with professional design software. In addition, the Robotics teams use the Innovation Center as their home base of operation and students are also able to experience expanded extracurricular activities.
• Size: 8,000 SF
• Cost: $1.5M
• Completion Date: 2020
• Student Stations: 1400
MIAMI BEACH HEBREW ACADEMY
Miami Beach, FL
The Rabbi Alexander S. Gross Hebrew Academy provides a comprehensive, holistic program of PK-12 education that incorporates general and Judaic teaching practices. Originally created in 1947 to create a learning environment that would combine Hebrew, Judaic and college preparatory programs in equal measure, preparing students for success in both worlds, that vision is still prevalent today and guides the design of the new Middle-High School.
The new addition is composed of three basic elements:
1. Shared Areas: Lobby, Beit Midrash, Media Center, Arts, and Student Life Areas
2. High School: Learning Studios (classrooms), Labs and Administrative Areas
3. Middle School: Learning Studios (classrooms), Labs and Administrative Support Areas
Safety is our priority in design. Security reinforcement is applied to the ground floor and interior glazing throughout the building ensuring a visual connection while maintaining a high level of security. The school occupies the full lot width at the northern end of the campus. This was strategically designed to effectively enclose the rest of the campus to the south, creating a secure and controlled court for the student activities. By defining the boundaries of the campus in this manner, the school will enhance safety and provide a protected environment.
• Size: 43,075 SF
• Cost: $12M
• Completion Date: 2020
• Student Stations: 712
CHRISTOPHER COLUMBUS HIGH SCHOOL MASTER PLAN
Miami, FL
In 2022, our team was engage to provide site master planning to coordinate the highest and best use of existing facilities with the future development as defined during a preliminary assessment and programming process. The site consists of a multiple high school buildings of various ages, athletic fields, and parking areas. Our work included the programming the new gymnasium, dining facilities, classrooms and athletic field improvements.
During this initial programming phase of the work, we defined the goals, objectives, and physical requirements of new and existing facilities. We developed an estimate “order-of-magnitude” project cost and establish preliminary schedules for the work. The work included a comprehensive review of the campus including educational, infrastructure, and athletic programs. Throughout the process, our team included input from all constituencies and stakeholders to define a long-term view of the campus’ future needs.
• Size: 16,5 Acres
• Cost: $110m
• Completion Date: Site Entitlements approved in 2026
• Student Station: 1750
OXBRIDGE ACADEMY MASTER PLAN
West Palm Beach, FL
Oxbridge Academy’s Master Plan is a comprehensive roadmap for the 54-acre West Palm Beach campus of this independent, co-educational grades 6–12 school. Grounded in the Strategic Plan values—Purpose, Agility, Confidence, and Kindness—it aligns facilities with the school’s mission and long-term vision. The Design Team began with a needs assessment and site due diligence (surveys and prior entitlements), revealing program-space mismatches—for example, the Dance studio lacks clear height for jumps, the 3D Art studio lacks proper ventilation, and counseling offices are dispersed.
In late 2024, workshops with stakeholders across Health & Wellness/Mental Health & LSP, Athletics & E-Sports, Performing & Visual Arts, Social Sciences, Middle School Leadership, Dining, Science, and Administration produced a shared set of priorities. The plan will optimize space, strengthen institutional identity, and support learning, collaboration, and student well-being.
• Size: 54 acres
• Cost: TBD
• Completion Date: TBD
• Student Station: 610 - 925
The following project approach outlines our design process for educational facilities. We are committed to collaborating with you to create innovative and sustainable learning environments that meet your specific needs and budget.
Understanding Your Vision
We begin by thoroughly understanding your vision for the project. This includes reviewing existing documents, attending relevant meetings, and gathering input from stakeholders. Our team members are experienced in various educational facility design aspects, including:
• K-12 design and innovative learning environments
• Independent private schools
• Campus master planning and programming
Collaborative
Design Process
We employ a multi-phased approach that emphasizes collaboration and open communication:
• Project Kick-off: We work with you to define a clear roadmap for the project, aligning our resources with your requirements.
• Program Analysis & Development: This phase focuses on defining the program needs, size of facilities, and initial budget. We consider innovative approaches like project-based learning and flexible learning environments.
• Campus Planning: We create a master campus development plan that considers the site’s potential and integrates seamlessly with the surrounding community.
• Parametric Design: Using 3D modeling software, we develop and refine design concepts based on your feedback. Cost-effectiveness and constructability are evaluated throughout the process.
• Design Development: During this phase, the chosen design solution is further refined and documented for construction bidding.
• Sustainable Design: We incorporate sustainable principles to create energyefficient, healthy environments that enhance the learning process.
• Construction Documents & Administration: We utilize BIM software to produce construction documents and collaborate with the Construction Manager to ensure project delivery within budget and schedule.
Additional Services
• Educational Market Analysis: We can provide an optional analysis of the educational market in your area, helping you identify potential opportunities and make informed decisions.
• Post-Occupancy Evaluation: Upon project completion, we can conduct evaluations to ensure the facility meets your expectations and identify areas for improvement.
• 3D visualization and fund raising graphics
Our Commitment to Quality
• We are dedicated to providing exceptional service and exceeding your expectations.
• Our team of experienced professionals possesses a deep understanding of educational facility design trends and best practices.
• We utilize advanced technologies and software to deliver high-quality, efficient design solutions.
Visualization
At Stratus, our 3D visualization and fund-raising graphics capabilities are crucial for our independent school clients because they transform abstract design concepts into vivid, emotionally engaging stories that inspire confidence and support. Through detailed renderings, immersive walkthroughs, and compelling visual presentations, our team helps school leaders, donors, and community members clearly understand the vision and impact of proposed projects—from new academic buildings to athletic or arts facilities. These visuals not only aid in design decisionmaking but also play a powerful role in fundraising campaigns, helping donors see exactly how their contributions will shape the future of the school. By making the school’s aspirations tangible and visually persuasive, our firm’s graphics and visualization techniques become essential tools for both project approval and capital campaign success.
• 3D Modeling / Illustration of Strategies
Fundraising Campaign Support
• Event Boards
• Donation Plan Graphics
• Web Support
• Fly-throughs
• Presentations at Events
WHY STRATUS
• Commitment to Learning, Visionary Design and Placemaking
• Unparalleled Independent School Experience
• Skilled in Using the Design Process as a Learning Opportunity
• We create Authentic Design Responses to a Particular Place
• We believe in Smart Sustainability, Resilience and Well-being
• Deep Market Expertise
• Skilled in Navigating Unique Entitlement Process
