ADVERTISEMENT
The STEAD School, L.C. Fulenwider Campus, Commerce City, CO07-09-24 | News

The STEAD School, L.C. Fulenwider Campus, Commerce City, CO

Submission by Terracina Design
by Staff

The School and Campus Issue of Landscape Architect and 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 . . .
The STEAD School at Reunion in Commerce City, Colorado, stands as a pioneering example of educational innovation. With its unique focus on Science, Technology, Environment, Agriculture, and system Design, this institution redefines the way high school education is approached. As landscape architects, Terracina Design played a pivotal role in shaping the physical environment that would nurture the growth and development of this groundbreaking educational venture.
Early in the design process, Terracina Design recognized the approach for The STEAD School needed to align with its groundbreaking educational philosophy. While the school empowers students to design and lead their own college and career pathways through Project-Based Learning, it was equally important that the site and landscape support this innovative approach.
Site planning of the 10-acre site involved multiple disciplines including architects, landscape architects, engineers, planners, educators, the agricultural community, and contractors. After numerous site visits to other schools and meetings with various stakeholders, it was determined that for The STEAD School to meet its philosophy it needed to take on the shape of a traditional farm homestead. The homestead would include multiple buildings placed strategically around a central school courtyard while incorporating a 1-acre farm where students actively participate in growing and selling it at an onsite Farmers Market.

img
 
Designing The STEAD School required careful consideration of phased development. The first classroom building was erected to accommodate the inaugural freshman class, with subsequent buildings built as funding became available through donations and grants. This approach posed challenges in utility locations and construction access but allowed students to gradually take ownership of flexible maker spaces.
The heart of the design philosophy lies in the creation of flexible outdoor spaces. Classroom buildings feature large barn doors that can be opened to provide an indoor/outdoor learning experience. Surrounding these buildings are open spaces designed with minimal constraints, allowing students to create their own maker spaces aligned with their curriculum.
The campus seamlessly integrates into an existing master-planned community, challenging the notion that agricultural schools must be located in remote areas. Traditional elements like high school sports are accommodated with basketball courts and a multi-use field. Future phases include "The Barn," which will serve as the school's auxiliary indoor space and gymnasium.
The sustainability of the campus is a core aspect of its design. A non-potable irrigation system sourced from a South Adams County Water and Sanitation District well provides greywater to non-edible xeric plant materials on the perimeter of the site. While potable irrigation is pulled from the buildings for student farming projects. Grain silos, recycled from a previous farm in northern Colorado, found a new purpose on the site, adding to its unique character.
The landscape design embraces xeriscaping, utilizing low or very low water demand plant types that tolerate the well water supply. It is intentionally low maintenance, with students taking responsibility for all landscape maintenance within and outside the campus fence. An example of hands-on education includes students testing different types of irrigation technology.
The STEAD School embodies a quirky character that resonates with its mission. It is a place where students learn and grow, where beehives, storage sheds, raised planter,
and chicken coops are built by students, and where future animal pens and stables will enrich their educational experiences. The campus offers spaces for hands-on exploration and experimentation.
The STEAD School is not merely an educational institution; it is a beacon of innovation and a testament to Colorado's commitment to a brighter, more sustainable future. Terracina Design's landscape architects played a crucial role in creating an environment that fosters experiential learning, creativity, and the development of future leaders who are deeply connected to their communities and committed to tackling complex challenges. The STEAD School is a symbol of what education can be when creativity, sustainability, and a dedication to excellence come together to shape the leaders of tomorrow.

To have your project featured in LASN or on LandscapeArchitect.com please email editorial@landscapearchitect.com

For more information about submitting a project, go to: https://landscapearchitect.com/research/editorial/editorial-submissions.php

img