Robinson Elementary, located in Nebraska’s capitol, is a school designed to support both how and where students learn. The district’s hope was to foster a greater sense of community, not just within the school but also extending to the surrounding neighborhood, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all.
Lincoln Public Schools
Lincoln, NE
$18,585,000
2023
The heart of Robinson Elementary lies in a vibrant core of shared spaces, with fair and equal access to these areas being a key driver in its design. By placing the library, cafeteria, gym, art and music rooms at the heart of the school, the layout fosters a sense of community and inclusiveness. This centralization not only encourages spontaneous interactions and collaboration among students of different grades but also simplifies supervision and maintenance for staff. The design reflects a commitment to creating an equitable and efficient learning environment.
Robinson Elementary exemplifies modern design and thoughtful functionality. The school employs a palette of neutral and contemporary tones, accented by vibrant colors, shapes and patterns strategically placed to assist children and staff in wayfinding, making navigation intuitive and engaging. These intentional elements will aid in creating spark, creativity and curiosity in young minds.
Every space within the school offers natural light, fostering a bright and welcoming atmosphere that enhances students’ well-being and concentration. Clerestory windows were added in centralized spaces that could not have windows at ground level, so these spaces could also benefit from natural light. With all the natural light and windows in the building, more energy-efficient glazing and sunshades were utilized in some areas. This commitment to natural illumination not only reduces the need for artificial lighting but also creates a warm, inviting ambiance throughout the school, promoting a positive learning experience for all students.
Robinson Elementary has structured its layout by creating pods of four classrooms for each grade, fostering a cohesive and collaborative learning environment. Each pod is designed as an independent cluster, featuring ample storage solutions and three dedicated small group spaces. These small group areas provide flexible settings for focused instruction, collaboration, and personalized learning experiences, allowing teachers to cater to the diverse needs of their students effectively.
