Gateway
Elementary
School

Client
Omaha Public Schools
Location
Omaha, NE
Size
105,565 SF
Completion date
March 2013

Three distinct words provided inspiration for the design of Gateway Elementary School: join, aperture, and frame. These words not only defined the architectural character of the facility, but provided a vision for the new school as an integral connection to the existing community and a catalyst that joins families from three surrounding schools. 

Gateway Elementary is situated on the northern portion of a 32-acre site that features rolling hills and views to the south. The programmatic needs and adjacency requirements identified during design influenced the organizational layout as well as the massing and architectural design of the facility. Portions of the floor plan are two stories high to take advantage both of the views to the south and of the change in elevation, which moves from a high point along 42nd Street and slopes gradually to the west. Primary program components include academic, activity, library and community, administrative and support. Each element has a unique spatial and material identity. 

Awards
Silver Award — Education
IIDA Great Plains Chapter
2014
Award of Excellence, Silver — Environment & Experience
AIGA Nebraska
2013
Merit Award
ASLA Central States
2012