The Garrison Elementary School project, located in the heart of DC's Shaw and Logan Circle neighborhoods, began as a community design effort wherein MKSK collaborated directly with parents, neighbors, and other local community groups to develop a site plan that would guide the future modernization of the school's grounds. These initial site studies became the basis for developing the 6.5-acre site into a multi-functional park space that serves the school and the surrounding neighborhood. The resulting landscape is sensitive to the site's historic character, creates lively recreation and social spaces for a growing community, and provides a unique setting for youth to learn environmental education and stewardship.

 
As a site on which significant historic events have taken place, the design team worked with the community to craft a site strategy that celebrates and commemorates the history of Camp Barker, one of many "contraband camps" that were constructed to house formerly enslaved persons, many of whom were eventually recruited as soldiers by the Union. The outdoor classroom is located where Abraham Lincoln is said to have attended services with enslaved individuals. The historic character is further revealed through a series of carefully placed sculptures and entry portals that incorporate interpretive signage, all of which honor the site's history and celebrate present and future youth.
The front façade of the school spans S Street and acts as the 'front yard' and the most public edge of the site. A grand entry stair, sidewalk 'pull-off' zones, and a stabilized gravel nature path create a variety of spaces that engage public passersby and define the school's identity. The nature path, punctuated by precast concrete benches, is designed to encourage students, teachers, and community members to gather, interact with, and observe both plant life and the life of the neighborhood. The design of the rear of the site reclaims the bulk of the former parking lot for use as active recreation space (soccer, baseball, track) and playground areas that support age-appropriate play for pre-K and K-5 age groups.
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