Providing students the opportunity to engage in meaningful inquiry and learning experiences beyond the traditional classroom
The Welch Outdoor Learning Center (OLC) has enriched Katy Independent School District (ISD)’s science, social studies, and physical education curriculum since 1982—however, it hadn’t been renovated since then and was in dire need of improvements.
Katy ISD’s goal for updating the OLC was to retain the Center’s historical sentiment while continuing to deliver unparalleled learning experiences. In addition to major infrastructure and building system upgrades, the project included renovating or replacing existing buildings and building new fishing and archery pavilions. Our architecture team designed a facility that continually immerses students in nature and makes it an essential component of the learning framework. Attractive outdoor instructional areas and indoor open-concept spaces support learning through observation, engagement, and hands-on participation while also providing ample space to continue supporting community events and summer recreation programs.
A model for outdoor learning, the Welch OLC now embodies Katy ISD’s mission to deliver leading edge education in a stimulating environment.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- Katy Independent School District
- Award
- 2022 A4LE Southern Region Summit Award
Jennifer Henrikson, Principal
Architecture leaves a permanent footprint for all to see; as architects we should always consider the mark we will leave with our work.
Parul Vyas, Principal
My philosophy is that memories are created when occupants move into the buildings we design.
Bradley Cowan, Design Director, Landscape Architecture/Urban Design
I find that landscape architecture is most successful when it blends art, nature, science, engineering, and people together.
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