Parkside Elementary

Norman Fletcher

1962

Parkside Elementary is distinguished by a series of barrel vaults supported by wood beams, planking, and steel columns, creating a striking umbrella effect that repeats in the gymnasium. Raised on an earthen podium, the design incorporates recessed courtyards and play areas, with deep laminated beams shading large windows. Fletcher’s seamless 1990 addition continued the same vocabulary, while Freedom Field behind the school became one of the first playgrounds fully designed for children and parents of all abilities.