Murch Elementary School

Washington DC

This LEED Gold school renovation includes a multisports field and court, age appropriate play structures, colorful site furniture and faculty programmed outdoor classrooms highlighting regenerative elements including a large pollinator garden. A shaded seating/work area and school farm sit on top of the green cafeteria roof and two art installations enliven the property. LID elements feature permeable paving and an extensive site rain garden/bioretention system. Educational signage highlights stormwater collection, compost tumblers, pollinator garden and bioretention areas. All walkways are accessible. There is special courtyard for PreK/K students containing a learning garden, natural play elements and permeable play turf. Continuous coordination and site design meetings with parents, faculty and DC DGS/DCPS resulted in a design that is functional, programmatically appropriate and aesthetic for the whole community.