Located on five wooded acres in Bellevue, WA, Three Cedars Waldorf School strives to educate students to develop capacities to think clearly, feel deeply, and impart meaningful purpose to their own lives. Working with school parents, teachers and staff, SHKS Architects developed a sensible strategy for growth.
To accommodate additional students and course offerings, a 10-year phased master plan was developed. Smaller scale buildings, added incrementally, balance classroom space needs and economic sustainability. Outdoor spaces are used for play and teaching, reflecting the unique needs and pedagogy of Waldorf education.
New buildings are designed and sited to minimize environmental impacts to the forested site. Daylight, natural ventilation and natural materials reduce energy use and create a healthy, comfortable learning environment.
Existing buildings from the 1950s will be renovated and adapted as resource classrooms for handcrafts, music and wood shop. An existing portable classroom building will be raised to add upper elementary classrooms.
