LOCATION
Olympia, WA
CLIENT(S)
TCF Architecture, Olympia School District
INVOLVEMENT
2016
With the goal of eventually becoming a net zero energy facility, the Olympia Regional Learning Academy (ORLA) is a model for environmental stewardship.
Accommodating four educational programs in one building, ORLA is home to the Olympia School District’s H-connect, I-connect and Montessori programs, and an Online Development Center. The school opened in February 2015.
Sustainability was the project’s mantra as our landscape architecture team designed rain gardens, bioswales, and drought-resistant lawns and made extensive use of native plant species. Other site features include green screen vertical planters, sports fields, playgrounds, and plaza spaces.
STAFF STORY
“We aimed to tread lightly on the land and ended up helping to create one of the most sustainable schools in the state.”
Jeff Glander, PLA, ASLA
Principal Landscape Architect