Saint Lawrence Academy, a private educational institution located in Santa Clara, aimed to resolve several challenges associated with its primary entrance, including a heavily worn front lawn, insufficient signage, and an undefined spatial layout. Operating within a constrained budget, the redesign of the entrance successfully enhances functionality while creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
To accommodate the daily influx of students and parents during pick-up times, the natural grass was replaced with cushioned synthetic turf, and additional benches were introduced to provide ample seating. One section of the lawn was transformed into a hardscape area featuring a seat wall, which not only delineates the pick-up and drop-off zone but also serves as a vital gathering space for the community. The existing concrete was treated with a stain to harmonize with the new pavers, thereby elevating its aesthetic appeal at a minimal expense. Furthermore, landscaping and irrigation systems were implemented to frame the school’s entrance and effectively separate it from the adjacent parking lot. The addition of new signage, an information board, and clearly defined pathways further enhances circulation and reinforces the school’s identity.
