Bar W Elementary School

Liberty Hill ISD

The design of elementary school #6 revolves around a line of existing trees that draws focus to an exterior learning courtyard wrapped by a curtain wall for views of the courtyard. Located in Bar W ranch, ES #6 sits on a piece of land previously owned by a family that settled in the 1800s due to its beauty and adjacency to the San Gabriel River.

Inspiration for the exterior and interior comes from a hill country modern aesthetic with stone, wood, and dark metal panels. Sloped roofs with deep overhangs highlight focal pieces of the program, like the entry, library, art, and dining. These spaces have direct views and access to the exterior. Arranged in an L-shape, the academics spaces wrap around those focal pieces and the oak trees. Inserted into that academic piece are “light bars” that pop up and out to allow daylight into the interior collaboration spaces.

I grew up in Cypress, spending most of my time playing outdoors with friends and racing home to beat the streetlights. Growing up, I wanted to be the next "Bill Nye the Science Guy" or even an astronaut, and in high school, I started working on cars with friends. However, it was a high school art history class that sparked my interest in architecture. That led me to pursue and earn a BS in Architecture from UTSA. I pursued this career because I’m fascinated by cities and how architects shape spaces. The collaboration in design and seeing the impact on end users keeps me motivated. Outside of work, I enjoy running and hiking. I try to surround myself with things that make me laugh, inspire curiosity, and creativity.

What architecture or place is on your bucket list to visit? I'd really like to experience the northern lights.

What's one piece of advice you'd give to someone starting their career? Remember to always stay curious and pursue the things that bring you joy.