CLH provided landscape architecture design and civil engineering services on the Green Elementary Replacement School project. The original building located near Millbrook and Six Forks Road was constructed in 1958. Over the years, various building additions were added to meet expansion needs; however, to meet current programming requirements, it was determined that a total replacement of the facilities would be the best approach. The clean slate allowed the placement and shape of the building to respond to the existing topography of the site and utilize the site to its potential. The large topographic changes were used to create separation between uses such as staff parking areas, play spaces, stormwater detention, and the car pool drive loop.
Because of the existing history of the school, many features of the former site were designed into the new site to preserve the identity of Green Elementary. For example, because a Magnolia tree previously located in the bus loop could not be saved, it was repurposed into a story teller chair area located outside the media center. Also, a rock outcropping which was a former destination along a nature trail in the wooded area of campus was relocated and is now featured in the carpool loop. Bricks from the original school building are used in the “Leadership Plaza” Space outside of the Administration area where the student Leadership committee will meet.
Green Elementary is a shining example of a site design which blends history, nature, and user needs to create a space that is unique and meaningful to the students, teachers, parents, and staff.
Susan Holt Photography
