Marin Elementary School Design Build
Albany, CA
Integrating Landscape, Learning, and Community
In collaboration with LCA Architects, Gates Studio reimagined Marin Elementary School as a vibrant, connected campus that reflects community values of walkability, artistic expression, outdoor learning, and sustainability. Located on a busy residential street, the campus design blends school with neighborhood, balancing openness and security through the thoughtful integration of streetscape, architecture, and landscape.
The design focused on reorganizing site elements to enhance supervision, safety, and connection. Unified furnishings, color, and planting establish a clear identity, while transparent fencing and framed gateways balance openness with security. The outdoor area was reimagined as an expansive, flexible landscape defined by trees, shaded seating, and a gently curving arroyo that weaves nature play into the daily experience. Stormwater features, a school garden, and outdoor learning zones extend the classroom into the landscape and foster creativity, discovery, and community connection.
This project was completed in 2023.
Project Details
At the heart of the campus, a flexible central lawn creates space for recreation, school events, and informal outdoor gathering.
Curving play spaces, open sightlines, and shaded gathering areas organize the campus around movement, visibility, and everyday student interaction.
Flexible seating and shaded outdoor spaces extend learning beyond the classroom, encouraging discovery, collaboration, and hands-on engagement with the landscape.