Slate School

Slate School is an independent elementary school in North Haven, CT situated on a 25-acre parcel featuring forest, open meadow lands and organic gardens. This backdrop celebrates nature as a means to observe and play.

The School’s small, single-story buildings minimize site disturbance by occupying the same footprint as the large 1980’s-era single family home complex. An administrative and three active classroom buildings enclose a formal courtyard, hosting outdoor learning, study and organized play activities. Beyond the courtyard, two more classrooms face a series of organic flower gardens, rain gardens, and meadows that create opportunities for imaginative learning and spontaneous play.

All building materials are vetted for durability and non-toxicity. High-efficiency building envelopes and adaptive mechanical systems will keep building operations and maintenance costs to a minimum while enhancing occupant comfort and health. Building design strategies such as solar orientation, natural ventilation, daylighting & circadian lighting will benefit and enhance the learning potential for the students.

Read more:

Slate School on Arch Daily
Slate School: A Virtual Tour
How to Design a Natural Playscape Helping Young Minds Bloom with an Educational Greenhouse and Gardens
From Design to Construction: How Slate School Was Built
What Goes Into the Design of a New Elementary School Campus?
How Healthy Schools Support Happy Children
The Best School Designs Connect Kids with Nature
Sustainable design for a new elementary school
Designing a nature-based school