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Sampson-Howard Elementary School

For their first new school since 1998, Temple Independent School District (Temple ISD) wanted their fine arts focused elementary school to pay homage to visionary leaders who advocated for the arts and fought for acceptance and inclusion in the district and across Texas. They reached out to our team to design a dynamic learning facility and community cornerstone that would empower, educate and inspire.

First of its kind in the region, the fine arts programs, including orchestra and theater, are foundational, not extracurricular, and integrated into the daily curriculum. We designed the building in such a way that from the moment students enter the academy they will encounter creative programs highlighted and present throughout campus. Our intentional use of color and shape sparks curiosity and imagination while helping young students navigate the different spaces on campus with ease.

To provide students with the opportunity to experience different learning and engagements styles, we crafted various gathering spaces located throughout the school, both interior and exterior, that differ from a traditional classroom setting, fostering collaboration, creativity, and connection. Large windows thoughtfully placed in corridors, classrooms, and large key spaces, such as the dining hall and library, create a warm, welcoming environment that boosts a student¡¯s mood and energy. The campus includes a ¡°cocooned¡± outdoor learning and play area, a full-size gym, larger than typical library, and a black box theater.

This vibrant campus and two-story building not only serve Temple ISD¡¯s students, but represent the progress, unity, and artistic excellence that has been happening within the Temple community.