Palo Alto Elementary Schools

Held in high regard academically, PAUSD’s buildings are part of a multi-decade program to bring the school system up to standards architecturally. The plan included modernizing and expanding with new high-performance buildings at three elementary schools. Currently, projects at two schools are under way, with three more schools in the planning phase. While certain themes hold true throughout: Daylight, indoor-outdoor space, and natural ventilation, the design for each building is unique for the location to meet student needs and take advantage of a perfect climate for outdoor learning.

Jump to:  Duveneck – Fairmeadow – Ohlone

To view more GPA projects: GPA Projects Map

  • Owner:

    Palo Alto Unified School District

  • Location:

    Palo Alto, CA

  • Completed:

    Duveneck 2014 - Fairmeadow 2013 - Ohlone 2012

  • Size:

    53,947 sq. ft. total

DUVENECK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

 

PHOTOS: MARK LUTHRINGER

 

The project provided a two-story classroom building and kindergarten/first grade quad to replace portable classrooms for growing enrollment. The library was relocated and enlarged. Sustainability highlights include daylighting, high-efficiency lighting, natural ventilation and low-emitting materials. Outdoor overhangs allow for children to eat, read, and sit outside for an al fresco classroom in the shade.

 

 

 

Section showing natural stack effect ventilation.

 

FAIRMEADOW ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

 

 

The eight- classroom, two-story addition accommodates more students while maintaining an open field for play. The building creates inviting outdoor space for students on the second story, as well as a covered lunch area. Indoors, these high-performing classrooms have daylight, fresh air and articulated floor plans.

 

Outdoor reading area and new library reading room

Section showing sustainability features

 

OHLONE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

 

 

The project replaced portable classrooms with a beautiful, new two-story building with a living roof, added landscaping, and took advantage of the organic school farm already in place. The building maintains an indoor/outdoor flow, and sits next to the farm to facilitate use of the new science/flex room as a resource.

 

 

Section showing sustainability features.