Sandy Hook, CT

The school’s design features a 400-foot long bioswale along the front of the building where students cross entry footbridges and can observe the rainwater cycle through integrated design elements.

The full design for the new Sandy Hook Elementary School, developed with extensive community involvement, focuses on creating an entirely new experience for the returning students, teachers and staff. A new entry boulevard approach sequence was carefully designed to integrate with the new building, site circulation and site program elements. The school, designed to accommodate 500 students from Pre-K through Grade 4, also incorporates security measures throughout the site that are sensitive towards protecting those attending and visiting the school without feeling overwhelming to the students and staff on site every day.

A 400-foot long bioswale at the front of the building emphasizes the project’s sustainable design goals, providing a visual demonstration of the rainwater cycle and an educational connection to nature. An above-ground cistern and runnels collect roof water to feed into the bioswale, while footbridges allow students to cross and enter the school with an immersive experience in the site’s natural design themes. The site also includes three semi-enclosed courtyards for outdoor learning, with the central one featuring an amphitheater and large lawn area framed by seat walls and plantings. Additionally, two distinct playground areas cater to different age groups, with vibrant colors for younger children and nature-inspired hues for older ones.