The two-story James Baldwin Elementary School serves a diverse population of the Seattle area. Some of the students attending have been exposed to or experienced homelessness, trauma, food insecurity, and other challenges. So, designing an educational home with an equitable, safe, and inspiring learning environment where all students had a path to academic success was a priority.

A curved, meandering hallway weaves through the school, removing any institutional feel and adding a sense of discovery. Every space is filled with natural light and biophilic connections to the outdoors give visual relief. Classrooms and common spaces feature calming nooks. The approximately 95,000 square foot school accommodates up to 650 students and provides outdoor learning, play, and recreation areas to promote activity.