Westwood – Elyria City School District

The renovation of the Westwood facility included the construction of a new addition to the existing school, allowing students to continue their education on-site throughout the project. The design accommodates separate PK-4 and 5th-8th grade programs, with each having its own designated entrances and exits to provide clear divisions between age groups and ensure smoother transitions for students.

Built to support 21st-century learning, the facility incorporates flexible classroom spaces that can be easily reconfigured to adapt to different teaching styles and learning needs. A dedicated maker space encourages hands-on exploration and creativity, while Extended Learning Areas (ELAs) offer collaborative environments for group projects and interactive learning. The design also includes exposed ceilings and skylights, bringing in ample natural light to create a bright and welcoming atmosphere.

Movable, flexible furnishings are used throughout the facility to support a range of activities, enabling teachers and students to easily reshape the learning environment as needed. Sustainability was a key focus, and the project achieved Silver LEED Certification, reflecting its use of energy-efficient systems and environmentally friendly materials.