School Description
Columbine, located in Northeast Denver, is an award-winning ECE – 6th grade school. We use the “Content Teaching” model of instruction where teachers specialize in specific subject areas, to enhance instruction. We also provide a comprehensive academic and enrichment program for our students before and after school, Monday through Friday.
Columbine is a school that actively seeks academic excellence and life-long learning through the promotion of community, the valuing and embracing of diversity, and the encouragement of self-discipline and care. Our curriculum supports each and every child as a worthy and dignified learner. Columbine is proud to be in a neighborhood that reflects the distinct social diversity of America.
Learning Landscapes Description
This plan focused heavily on the concept of challenges and changes for a school and neighborhood that has been the heart of racial redlining.
Columbine Beacon School
Construction Date
August 2003
Landscape Architect
Design Concepts
Play Equipment Vendor
Miracle Recreation Equipment Company
Master Plan
Vision
The Columbine campus will be the stitch that pulls together all aspects of education (academic, physical, social, and cultural) revealing and celebrating the context of the North City Park neighborhood.
Goals
- To design a landscape that facilitates learning through interactive and creative play.
- To create spaces that accommodates multiple uses.
- To provide a gathering place for the North City Park neighborhood.
- To celebrate and reveal the cultural history of the North City Park neighborhood – “Struggle Hill”.
Design Development
Description
This plan focused heavily on the concept of challenges and changes for a school and neighborhood that has been the heart of racial redlining.
Illustrative Drawing
Design Development Drawings
Presentation Boards
Collage
3D Model Photos
Construction Documentation
Description from Architect
Two geographic features influenced the layout and detailing of site elements at Columbine Elementary. Curvilinear forms and drainage patterns represent the Colorado River and play pit shapes and a rubber play mound mimic the Colorado sand dunes. Students also have the opportunity to learn about their local neighborhood and state by colored brick patterned maps in the asphalt play pad. A raised plaza with a shade shelter provides opportunities for school and community gatherings. Also unique to this site is a synthetic turf driving green to support the school’s golf club.
Illustrative Plan
Construction Drawings
Play Equipment
Shade Structure