The School & Corporate Campus Issue of Landscape Architect & Specifier News saw many firms submit their projects for feature consideration. This project was not chosen for a Feature in the issue, but we at LandscapeArchitect.com thought the project deserved to be showcased online . . .

SALT DESIGN STUDIO designed a new schoolyard for KIPP Philadelphia Preparatory Academy, converting an asphalt lot into a high-performance, multi-use space for play, education, exercise, and socialization. Rooted in three of KIPP's primary values - joy, resilience and activism - the schoolyard design fosters delight and freedom through lively color, pattern, and form; demonstrates sustainable strategies for social and environmental equity; and empowers students with a sense of belonging and agency in this flexible landscape.

The design features a flexible amphitheater space for social and formal gatherings as well as a bright yellow berm that serves as a play feature and expansion seating for the classroom. A challenging tower of hexagonal play blocks gives kids a joyful place to test their strength and agility skills. The diagonal, checkered walkway directs visitors to a smaller classroom space that is furnished with lime green stools and bordered by lush planting.

 
The schoolyard perimeter is rimmed with native trees, shrubs, flowering perennials and grasses, providing hands-on opportunities for learning about southeast Pennsylvania's indigenous plant communities, native habitats, and vital pollinators.

Design Team, Contractors & Consultants
Client: KIPP Philadelphia
Developer: MIS Capital LLC
Landscape Architect: SALT DESIGN STUDIO
Architect: KSS Architects
Civil Engineer: Ruggiero Plante Land Design
Consulting Engineer: DEDC, LLC
General Contractor: Axis Construction Management
Site Contractor: John J. Dougherty & Son, Inc.

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