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Lowell Elementary School in Tacoma’s North End creates a welcoming, inclusive learning environment that reflects its community. BCRA partnered with Tacoma Public Schools and Korsmo Construction to deliver the replacement school through Progressive Design-Build. Designed for 500 students, the new school balances educational goals, sustainability, neighborhood context, and student experience.
The steeply sloping urban site required creative solutions that preserve mature trees, respect neighborhood views, and maximize functionality. Lowell is Tacoma Public Schools’ first educational project to incorporate cross-laminated timber (CLT). Exposed structural wood adds warmth while making sustainable design visible throughout the school.
Architecture, interior design, and experiential graphics build identity and belonging through Pacific Northwest themes inspired by the ocean, mountains, and sky. Original artwork and a historic mosaic from the 1949 school connect past and present generations while celebrating creativity and student expression.
Lowell Elementary School is scheduled to welcome students in September 2026.
