Drawing inspiration from the Comal ISD Learning Tree, the design for Farias-Spitzer and Comal Creek Elementary Schools reflects the mission and values of the fast-growth school district, while providing flexible environments for young learners to encounter unique places to grow and flourish. The two-story, 96,000 SF prototype design focuses on an open library and is organized to welcome community activities.
The Gymnasium and Cafeteria are accessible upon entering the building with connections to the Outdoor Learning Courtyard, an energetic space both during school hours and evening events. Security between the public and academic areas is achieve through access control. Pre-K and Kinder classrooms are located within a dedicated neighborhood on the first level near the Administration suite. 1st through 5th grade classrooms are distributed between levels and are identical in amenities to flex and serve grade level needs as the student population changes from year to year. Flexibility was a guiding principle for this project, and in lieu of dedicated science labs, “Science Ready” areas at corridors are equipped to support project-based learning.
Nestled within these spaces is the Library and heart of the campus. Drawing from tree references, interior articulation and materiality create a playful area to spark student imagination, encourage creative exploration, and support collaboration. A central stair provides circulation between levels extending the collaborative components of the Library to the second level. Comal Creek and Farias-Spitzer have identical floor plans, so design differences in key areas help to provide distinctive identities between schools.
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