Gibsons Elementary

This state-of-the-art, 21st Century Learning Environment is an effective and functional design laid out over two storeys. Extending in two directions from the main entrance foyer is the “Main Street,” which, in conjunction with the foyer will form the “social heart” of the school, and is designed in such a way as to facilitate informal gatherings and display. The main entrance foyer is of glass and wood construction, providing a warm and inviting entrance into the school.

The main street is the central organizing element of the school. In the classroom wing, it becomes a two-storey atrium space that visually connects the main floor with the upper floor. Continuous clerestory glazing on both sides of the circulation spine, and the two-storey high glazed wall front and back of the main foyer flood the public spaces of the school with natural light and sunshine.

Classrooms are grouped in a distinct wing that can be secured from the rest of the school, thus allowing gymnasium, multi-purpose rooms, and NLC spaces to function after hours without compromising the security of the classroom wing. Breakout alcoves on both floors lend themselves to table and chair configurations suitable for “watering hole” collaborations and can be supervised through large interior windows shared with the adjacent classrooms. In combination with the large second-floor collaboration area next to the library, these informal learning spaces will enable the application of 21st-century learning principles for the life of the school.

Photographer: Ed White Photographic

Project Stats

• Client: School District No. 46
• Location: Gibsons, BC
• Size: 4,300 sq.m.
• Project Type: New Build
• Project Delivery: Design-Build