International School

The new International School reimagines a beloved school site while honoring the community that has made it unique. Designed to replace the existing facility, the new International School builds upon the community’s enduring culture of belonging, curiosity, and connection by creating spaces that inspire learning both in the classroom and beyond.

Guided by the concept of “Forest and Stone,” the design is rooted in the site’s natural landscape and shaped by the experiences of students who helped envision its future. Designed as a net-zero emissions campus, the school uses its setting as both a design influence and a teaching tool, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship. Classrooms are oriented to capture consistent northern daylight and views of the surrounding woods and wetlands, while outdoor learning areas and direct access to nature extend educational opportunities beyond the school walls.

At the heart of the school, a welcoming Commons serves as a vibrant gathering place where students connect throughout the day, and the community gathers after hours. Surrounded by academics, arts, athletics, and performing arts, this organization creates a dynamic ecosystem that supports exploration, creativity, and collaboration. The new performing arts center and community-focused gathering spaces reinforce the school’s role as a cultural hub for students and neighbors alike.

Natural, durable materials, expressed structure, and exposed building systems create an authentic learning environment where net-zero stewardship is visible in the daily lives of students. The reuse of glulam beams from the original school carries its legacy forward while reducing environmental impact, demonstrating how thoughtful design can connect past and future. Together, these strategies create a school that reflects the values of stewardship, community, and lifelong learning.