Photo by Benjamin Benschneider/BLRB Architects Genesee Hill Elementary opened in 2016 in West Seattle. BLRB Architects was the designer and Spee West Construction was the general contractor. Heery International was the construction manager.

It's much easier for schools to get to net zero
Not only is it getting cheaper to install solar energy systems, but local grants and incentives are available to defray improvement costs.
By JACK NEWMAN
Sazan Environmental Services

Stretch your tight budget by getting creative
When funding falls short, districts can turn to a number of useful strategies to get back on track.
By BRIAN RICH
Forma Construction

OSU football center opts for flexible lighting scheme
The enlarged, remodeled space caters to players, coaches, trainers and recruits, and their wide-ranging lighting needs.
By ALISON FIEDLER
Stantec

Schools have more ways than ever to go green
More projects are using “active” energy-saving measures like photovoltaics, green roofs and geothermal systems.
By LEE FENTON
BLRB Architects

See-through schools spark interest in learning
When students see their peers working on cool projects, they’re more likely to participate.
By JORDAN KIEL
Bassetti Architects

How playgrounds make all children feel welcome
Features like playful pathways and “dynamic refuges” give kids with disabilities more ways to play and socialize.
By JASON MORSE and JAMES STUART
AHBL

After two decades, UW’s SLU campus nears completion
The second of three final-phase medical research buildings will open this fall. The last building begins construction in 2020.
By ANTHONY GIANOPOULOS
Perkins+Will

Eastside Prep’s versatile arts hall made for concerts, plays and yoga
With help from a “sky wall,” the theater balcony can be transformed into a lecture hall or activity space.
By ERIC PETERSEN
Schuchart

The view from inside a school: what really makes it safe
Security shouldn’t come at the expense of making students feel welcome, says one school staffer.
By MICHAEL MCGAVOCK
McGranahan Architects

Studies suggest design really can affect how well students learn
Students do best when they have visual stimulation, natural surroundings and control over their environment.
By PHILIP RIEDEL and ALYSON MAHOE
NAC Architecture

Bremerton alternative school breaks down walls to learning
A former call center has been renovated into a flexible space where students can learn at their own speed.
By IVI GABALES
Rice Fergus Miller

3 keys to building green schools: design, operations and renewables
Taking a multi-pronged approach to energy efficiency leads to designs that are resilient, adaptable and healthy for students.
By AMAPREET SETHI
DLR Group

UW Life Sciences Building: giant firs and bird songs offer a one-of-a-kind elevator ride
A specially assembled timber facade greets passengers, who are serenaded by a different bird song on each floor.
By KIRK BREWER
Skanska Building

How enviro consultants can lend your school project a helping hand
They can smooth permitting, build public support and ensure designs won’t run afoul of regulations.
By NELL LUND
The Watershed Co.

Long-distance teams worked in concert to remake Wyoming school theater
The partnership kept costs and schedules in check as complexities piled up for the historic renovation.
By BRET MADDOX
PCS Structural Solutions