Making the most of a wooded site, Harriet Rowley's design embraces its surroundings and stands ready to welcome incoming learners.

The 2-story Harriet Rowley Elementary School is located on a wooded, 15-acre, parcel near East Division Street in Mount Vernon, WA.

As Mount Vernon School District’s (MVSD) first new school in twenty years, Rowley’s completion helped the community build toward the future: the facility acted as a steppingstone and temporary home for students awaiting construction of Madison Elementary. Rowley is designed to support 550 students in grades K-5.

The design is inspired by the setting and spirit of its neighbors, through materials and finishes that combine longevity, durability, sophistication, and delight.  Timber harvested from the site has been re-milled and used as interior signage and outdoor site features.  An interior bridge connects two pairs of classroom and activity wings, stitching together a floor plan that connects spaces for learning and social engagement. Outside, students enjoy playfields surrounded by a walking path, a covered play area, and an open outdoor learning space.