From the 2024 Educational Interiors Showcase: Barbara Vick Western Branch

By transforming an unused commercial bank building for the Barbara Vick Early Education Western Branch, Chicago Public Schools has illustrated how to turn empty storefronts into community assets. At the entry, energetic blues, oranges, and yellows dance among warm wood tones, illuminated by a large, glass atrium. A large central stair connects the classroom levels, encouraging students and staff to linger and socialize. The colors zigzag into six generously sized classrooms on the first and second floors, each with unique spaces to learn, explore, and play, including nooks for small groups or quiet learning. The teller drive-through has been converted into a covered play environment for outdoor education.

Read more about the Barbara Vick Western Branch and view a photo gallery at SchoolDesigns.com.