Saam Architecture’s embrace of biophilia in design reflects a growing recognition of nature’s benefits in educational settings. Studies have shown that students who are able to connect with nature and natural elements during the school day experience increased academic achievement and productivity. Saam’s school projects are centered on biophilia and the design principles that provide wellness benefits to all the projects’ occupants, including students, teachers, staff, and community.

Another important consideration in creating school environments is fostering social- emotional learning (SEL). Through design that is scaled for all students in various types of spaces – collaborative vs individual, playful vs serious, hands-on vs observational vs reposed – and providing accessibility to each, all individuals are celebrated and supported.

 

Biophilia enhances SEL by creating environments conducive to collaboration and creativity, reducing stress, and promoting respect for others differences. During design of the Crocker Elementary School in Fitchburg, Mass., Saam dove headfirst into these concepts, intertwining the two throughout the building. The school’s proximity to conservation land, ideal north-south orientation, and challenging site topography informed Saam’s design approach.

Some other examples of biophilic, social, emotional learning design elements seen throughout the school are:

Nature Views:

Exposure to nature lowers stress and enhances focus. Crocker Elementary School’s layout will optimize outdoor views and connect classrooms to the exterior learning spaces and fields. The building offers direct access to cross-curricular activities on both floor levels, while the landscaping surrounding the building will enhance students’ connection to nature.

Natural and Dynamic Lighting:

Dynamic, diffused lighting supports students’ circadian rhythms. Large windows will allow natural daylight to flood into the learning spaces, fostering attentiveness and happiness throughout the student population while promoting a stimulating environment that enables learning.

Natural Finishes & Color Palette:

Wood paneling and dynamic biophilic graphics evoke nature, providing a lively form of wayfinding throughout the building. Biobased flooring in natural and monolithic color tones delineates program spaces, fostering a sense of grounding for each space. Extended learning spaces provide learning community identity through a series of biomes-themed zones.

Exterior Design:

The building’s exterior features naturally toned panels with biophilic patterns transitioning to regularized patterns. This design reflects the district’s contemporary aspirations while integrating biophilic elements and adhering to all requirements for economy and durability.

 

Once construction is completed in 2025, the Crocker Elementary School will exemplify how combining biophilia and SEL principles throughout design can elevate student’s well-being, cognition, and inclusivity.