Cardinal Elementary School sets new standards for design excellence in sustainability, energy performance, and learning environments. The design optimizes an existing school and public library facility while seamlessly combining new construction to achieve a high-performing, flexible, and dynamic educational facility.

Located on an urban site directly abutting both residential plots and a commercial block, the school boasts a natural civic presence and central community role. Following an intense year-long community engagement process, Cardinal Elementary reflects the often-repeated desire among Arlington residents to “build up and not out”. This process informed a vertical approach to the 4-story addition that preserves community green spaces for a fully accessible walking paths, athletic fields, and playgrounds.

The design includes a variety of learning spaces that articulate the positive relationships between pedagogy, community engagement, modern architecture, and educational landscapes that promote health, accessibility, and collaboration. The connection between spaces inside and outside the building activate sensory responses and provide views, daylighting, and access to the outdoors. Specialized learning classrooms and extended learning areas are interwoven throughout the school to provide flexibility and encourage collaboration.

A cohesive environmental graphics package establishes an immersive approach to wayfinding throughout the school. Inspired by global geography, this system is supported by informative graphics that introduce students to places and cultures around the globe. Environmental graphics blend seamlessly with spatial elements to create an accessible and fun sense of placemaking.