LASN is a photographically oriented, professional journal featuring topics of concern and state-of-the-art projects designed or influenced by registered Landscape Architects.
Issue link: https://landscapearchitect.epubxp.com/i/320919
88 Landscape Architect and Specifier News Funding for transformation of the Harvard Kent Elementary School in the historic Bunker Hill area of Charlestown, Mass., was funded by the Boston Schoolyard Initiative. Previously, the school had no greenery and zero wimsy. Among the graphics that delight the children are some Massachusetts critters that are state symbols: the black- capped chickadee, Boston terrier, the orange and white tabby and the two-spot ladybug. paths, walkways and scientific teaching tools. An armature with pulleys is used to illustrate simple lessons in physics. Thermometers are located on various sides of posts to show how temperature can vary between sun and shade. Weather vanes and sundials are also in the garden. Three raised planting beds allow children and teachers to plant seeds and study their development. One planter has a viewing window where students can view the root structure of what they plant. Throughout the garden/classroom there are various stones and stumps to sit on, arranged in groups and as single elements to foster different learning styles. A whiteboard with benches is located near the entrance to the classroom, where the teachers can gather the students into one large group to give general lesson instructions. A large storage container built in the shape of a ship's bow accommodates tools and supplies for the classroom. The entry gate, designed to resemble a porthole, marks the transition from the active playground to a classroom environment where play is more directed and classroom curriculum implemented. The gate is designed so that just the porthole can be opened, requiring the children to slow down as the enter the "classroom." About CBA Landscape Architects LLC: For the last 25 years CBA has specialized in public urban spaces. In particular, the firm is known for its schoolyards and neighborhood parks. For these projects a series of public meetings are used to promote community involvement and guide the design. Notable examples include Harriet Tubman Park in Boston's South End, Box District Park in Chelsea, Mass., featured in the March 2013 LASN http://landscapeonline.com/research/article/17479 , and the Eliot Schoolyard in Boston's North End. Clara Couric Batchelor, ASLA, LEED AP , founder and principal of the firm, received her MLA at the Harvard University's Graduate School of Design. Harvard Kent (Continued from page 82) I n f o r m a t i o n R e q u e s t # 5 4 3 88-89.indd 88 5/23/14 3:46 PM