◆ Architecture
■ Master Planning
● Interior Design
■ Master Planning
● Interior Design
Three Springs Elementary School
Durango,
Colorado
Following the successful passage of a 2024 bond, Durango School District selected RTA to design a new elementary school in the Three Springs neighborhood.
Elementary Schools
Project Details
Size: 68,500 sf
Cost: $45M (est.)
Design Details
- Collaborative design process
- New construction
- Flexible, collaborative learning environments
- Dedicated outdoor learning porch and learning studios
- Centrally located Library and Innovation Center
The school is thoughtfully nestled within the site’s natural vegetation, creating a strong bond between building and landscape. Outdoor learning is prioritized through a dedicated learning porch and three outdoor studios. Classrooms are grouped by grade level into learning communities centered around small commons areas, visually connected by large garage doors. Shared collaboration spaces, storage, and flexible rooms between grades pairs enhance adaptability and teamwork. Each classroom opens directly to the outdoors via sliding glass doors. Architecturally, the building’s low profile and extended rooflines emphasize its connection to nature and harmony with the surrounding community.
Through a collaborative Design Advisory Group (DAG) process, the design team worked closely with the district, hosting user group meetings, workshops, and a community open house to shape the vision for Three Springs Elementary.