Because learning occurs not only in the classroom and recognizing individuals learn in varying ways, Parkside offers many opportunities for teaching among inspirational settings.

“Save the trees!” appealed Parkside’s students at the onset of design. The award-winning response addressing this, and other criteria for a durable, inviting, long-lasting facility, extends a welcoming gesture to its students, staff, and community. Parkside is nestled into a naturally sloped hillside; the building is entered at its upper “main” level, and its classroom wings stack to create a double-story massing. This configuration celebrates a wooded preserve and seasonal spring at the site’s Western edge by locating the library and classrooms within this quiet and peaceful setting. Authentic, durable surfaces create an elegant and sustainable interior environment. The concept behind the materials palette allows the beauty of natural finishes to do the heavy lifting. Concrete, glass, steel and wood help to minimize extraneous products and utilize locally-available resources.