A key feature of the design is the “Discovery Hub,” a central social space that connects the historic building, the 1950s structure, and the new addition. This hub navigates the level changes between the buildings, creating an accessible and welcoming gathering space that opens directly to a protected outdoor classroom.

The design is Net Zero-ready, ensuring both environmental responsibility and long-term efficiency.

Located on Alabama Avenue, the existing conditions posed significant safety concerns, with play spaces too close to the busy street and an unsafe student drop-off area that had resulted in pedestrian accidents.

The design solution addressed these issues by creating a protective buffer for the play spaces and moving the primary student drop off and entrance to a calmer side street, enhancing accessibility and safety.

The modernization of Garfield Elementary School addressed safety, accessibility, and functionality challenges. The design, developed in collaboration with the Historic Preservation Office and the US Commission of Fine Arts, integrates modern, functional, and equitable learning spaces while celebrating the historic building and its prominent architect, William Sydney Pittman. The new addition was carefully designed to complement the existing building without overwhelming the historic character of the campus.