Symmes Elementary School
Client: Sycamore Community Schools
Location: Loveland, Ohio
  • Phased renovation and 69,000sf addition that includes four new preschool classrooms, six new kindergarten classrooms, a new kitchen and a storage addition to the gymnasium.
  • As the result of a 2-year community engagement initiative, the design focuses on four primary concepts: playful, but refined; color blocking as wayfinding; inviting graphics; and bright, warm spaces.
  • Renovated classrooms include updated finishes such as flooring and casework.
  • A new playground that supports outdoor learning.
  • Separate car and bus drop-off locations.
  • Progressive technology integrated throughout the building.
Interesting Fact: Prior to the renovation, the current media center was a Kiva round room with a conversation pit. The recessed floor was filled in to create more functional and flexible space supporting a variety of activities from individual reading to collaborative projects.
Architecture|Interior Design|Engineering

The phased renovation and addition to Symmes Elementary School is a result of the SHP-led master plan and design of the $127.5M district building program. Designed with overall continuity in mind, the reimagined PK-4 elementary school building creates a sense of excitement for young learners embarking on their journey through Sycamore Community Schools.

"The SHP team did extraordinary work to understand the culture and expectations of our district."
– Frank Forsthoefel, Former Superintendent, Sycamore Community Schools