2007 Pro-Bono Design Project
Developed with student intern Luke McLeod

As part of the “Arbor Day” committee made up of program volunteers and parents, Cloverbank Elementary School courtyard design came to life. The existing space was dominated with concrete pavement and furniture that was more appropriate for adults rather then the young children that occupied the space.

Based on input from primary faculty, a Japanese style garden started to take shape. Suggested site development included repurposing an area way into a stage area, creating a shade structure, and developing a lawn space. A sandbox area was also suggested as well as an active play area utilizing poured in place rubber surfacing to create geometric patterns on the ground as well as replacing the existing concrete with a more appropriate play surface. A wall area and arbor act as separation between the active zone and the more naturalized “Japanese garden area”. The courtyard is surrounded by brick walls, with one large unobstructed wall. We suggested painting geometric patterns reminiscent of the work of Frank Lloyd Wright on the wall to add interest as well as provide an opportunity for “ball” games to be created and played within the active play area.