2019 AIA Nebraska Design Awards
EXCELLENCE IN ARCHITECTURE
MERIT

PROJECT NAME  Sunset Hills Elementary School

PROJECT LOCATION  Omaha, Nebraska

OWNER  Sunset Hills Elementary School, Westside Community Schools

FIRM  TACKarchitects

PHOTOGRAPHER  Tom Kessler

The design team proceeded with a goal of creating an Elementary School ready for the technology and learning needs of today's students, while maintaining the feel of a small neighborhood school within the city. Through subtle use of color, areas within the building are easily identified by young students unable to read. Corridor spaces are activated with bright colors and large learning areas outside of the classroom. These spaces allow students to engage with each other in all areas of the building. Views to the exterior are celebrated with large expanses of glass in public spaces, while windows in classrooms allow for daylight harvesting to enhance the student learning experience.

Jury Comments: This project was commendable in its approach to restraint and resources. The simple pallet creates an easy flow in the common areas and clever deploying of the constellation of small windows in the gymnasium creates a playful effect on the interior and a strong visual interest on the exterior.