Project Info
The new elementary school for the Civita community, called Nipaquay, an indigenous word meaning “Our Other Home,” is based on flexibility and connectivity. Entering at the welcome center, the design extends directly to a new ‘maker space’ and library and media center, where new curriculum hinges on technological integration and student exchange. Each classroom is built on a module that can connect to an exterior classroom/shared workspace where student and teacher collaborations can capitalize on the consistency of San Diego outdoor weather and connect to the adjacent park and play areas. Intended as a hub for the community’s youth, the design blends directly into Civita Park, offering walking and bicycling access directly to the site. Solar panels and other sustainable strategies were architecturally integrated into the campus, with respect towards optimizing student awareness of energy use and making the buildings an integral part of the teaching pedagogy.
The campus hosts three colorful playgrounds accommodating an array of age groups as well as a built-in climbing wall in the central courtyard. The indoor/outdoor cafeteria is replete with vibrant colors and signage. A welcoming public plaza at school entry guides students and visitors into the school, and education signage posts located throughout the school integrate learning into every aspect of the campus experience.