A stand of historic oaks and natural day light were primary consideration in the design of this project. North-facing windows frame the view of the namesake oaks. A sheltered outdoor classroom, communal gathering spaces, a new library/media center, and a new indoor classroom were integrated into a small free-standing addition at this existing elementary school in the village of Graton, in Sonoma County, California. The building’s orientation and design emphasize quality indoor day light, an open and inviting learning environment, and a strong connection to the outdoors.
James Carr, AIA was Lead Designer on this project while at Bowles, Kendrick & Lemanski Architects in San Fransisco, California.