This public school had a large inner courtyard and a dream of an urban farm where students could connect to the earth, learn to grow food, and inspire entrepreneurship. The longtime custodian had begun a raised bed garden program, planted fruit trees, and had dreams of filling the space. We worked with him to develop this vision, building upon his years of dedication to this space and its students. This design honors his vision and dedication to this space by retaining most of his original plantings. This design was submitted as part of a competition for a new design. Sadly, turnover in school leadership left this project unfulfilled and a final design was never chosen.

This courtyard garden/urban farm was designed with multiple areas for a variety of activities. Students can learn different aspects of agriculture, including seed collection, transplanting, pruning, harvesting, worm composting, and chicken care. There is a greenhouse, chicken coop, and raised beds, including ADA accessible beds. Students will also be able to learn about the natural and physical sciences from the native plants in the landscaping, the central bioswale, and the wildlife that will come to visit. There is a central gathering space for teachers to hold outdoor lessons. Sensory elements are also highlighted, with placement of a calming sensory garden near the classrooms for neurodiverse students. Finally, nature play elements are present with logs, a stump circle, and a sandbox for younger students.