Rockridge

Illinois

2027

Rockridge Elementary is the culmination of 3 separate branches of the Rockridge community. Replacing three outdated elementary buildings, this unified PK–5 campus is thoughtfully designed to support imagination, collaboration, and growth. With 55,000 square feet of purpose-driven space, it brings new ideas and design innovation to the forefront of educational design.

The first floor welcomes students and families with a vibrant shared commons along with a new gym, music performance space, and extra-curricular classrooms. Above, the second floor prioritizes small-group learning and a space for older kids to work in a variety of settings near the 3rd–5th grade pod.

Classrooms in the building are focused in 4 pods, each with their own central library and break-out space that is tailored to the specific age group of the grade. A thoughtful use of color and identity helps define each grade level, subtly guiding students through their learning journey and giving each grade level its own sense of place.

Mood Board &

Concept Sketches

Finish Selections

Materials were chosen with purpose—balancing long-term durability and cost efficiency with a focus on creating calm, engaging spaces. In learning zones, bright and cool-toned colors pop against a neutral backdrop, bringing energy without overwhelming the senses. Colors helped to create identity for the different pods throughout the school, while adjacent materials brought in warmth and natural texture.

Renderings

  • Commons

    Commons

  • Classroom

    Classroom

  • K-1 Commons

    K-1 Commons

  • Gym

    Gym

  • 2-3 Commons

Lessons Learned

One of the key successes of this project was creating a unique identity for an elementary that was directly adjacent to the city’s existing Jr/Sr High. The elementary had the rich history of the previous 3 schools to guide it’s theming on the interior, while the exterior could meld into the existing architecture of the surrounding buildings, creating one cohesive campus. The process taught me how to balance an interior and exterior that at first seemed to have conflicting identities, and how custom design elements can remain impactful without compromising durability or cost-efficiency. It was a lesson in creativity with purpose—where design ambition met practical responsibility.