Architect: Stieglitz Snyder Architecture

The design of the school grounds for the Bennett Park Montessori School is intended to reflect the teaching and learning philosophy of the Montessori Method. This philosophy of teaching; the concept of explorative learning, hands on experiences, working together and understanding the concept of peace through human interactions and resolutions is very important.

These concepts were emphasized in our re-design of the school grounds. New pathways were developed to encourage students to use a new variety of paths through the various existing planting areas and different out-door elements for ever-changing exploration opportunities. These out-door elements include the existing playground, a new pond-less water feature, earthen mounds of various sizes and shapes throughout the site, a new amphitheater and stage, and the newly designated free-play areas.

The concept of peace is very important to the school and their philosophy of teaching. Due to a building addition, an existing stone walk in the form of a peace symbol will be removed. To maintain this important symbol for the school, our new amphitheater is designed with a peace symbol created from a variety of materials found throughout the world will be placed into the concrete of the stage. Outdoor class room spaces focusing on food production, weather stations, and organic gardening are also proposed along the western edge of the new addition.