"Mount Zion Primary School, K thru 2nd Grade, is a 93,000 sq. ft. single story facility that consists of 49 classrooms. In addition, the building features a large media center with a reading pit, an administration suite, cafetorium and computer lab.
An initial analysis of the site presented the design team with a natural land form that would accommodate tiered seating, outdoor learning and group presentations for performances. This natural land form resulted in an outdoor amphitheater which the 4 classroom wings were designed around. This exterior space serves both the school, the adjacent elementary school and the community. A radial plan design is used to accomplish many of the initial design objectives. This layout reduces the perceived length of the corridors, assists in grade level grouping and creates a secure and safe space between each wing.
The arcade or connecting hallway reflects the shape of the amphitheater offering constantly changing vistas while focusing attention on the amphitheater. The classroom side of the arcade serves as a display area for art and other individual projects created by the students.
The arcarde wall adjacent to the amphitheater incorporates ample window area; visually tying the arcade and amphitheater activities, again emphasizing the importance of this area as a place of student performance and presentation. The music and arts classrooms were placed adjacent to the amphitheater; enhancing the communication arts environment."
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