Cranston, RI Finegold Alexander Architects is working with the city and public schools on the design of the new Gladstone Elementary School, to replace an existing 1950s-era school. Fine-
gold Alexander, a firm known for its expertise in educational facility design, is leveraging the existing site topography to create a compact building footprint, promoting energy efficiency. The school’s layout optimizes the building’s solar orientation to maximize natural daylight and views for both teachers and students.

The new facility will serve as the international school for the city which includes the consolidation of both Gladstone and Arlington Elementary Schools, serving 798 students in grades K-5. The new 100,000 s/f school will feature three stories of teaching and learning, with an innovative building design. Instead of arranging classrooms along a central corridor, the six distinct learning communities are each designed as a single suite of interconnected rooms. Curiosity centers with purpose-built music, art and maker spaces serve to connect the learning communities on each floor. Learning opportunities extend beyond the building to the larger site. Outdoor activities are encouraged with three outdoor learning areas, multiple playgrounds, and a community garden. 

“Finegold Alexander is excited to share the design of the new Gladstone Elementary School,” said Finegold Alexander principal Regan Shields Ives. “The design is focused on fostering interaction, communication, and creativity while giving the school the ability to adapt as their needs change over the decades.”

The social center and cafetorium will be located on the first floor, bolstering the intention as a safe and secure space for the community. Gathering stairs will be located within the building to offer opportunities for informal seating and social interactions for students, teachers, and parents alike. The project is in the design development phase with a projected completion date of summer 2025.

Cranston Public Schools selected Finegold Alexander to lead this project as the firm’s expertise and understanding of the school’s needs will help Gladstone continue to serve and provide for the students.

Finegold Alexander has a portfolio of K-12 projects across the greater New England region and a history of renovating and transforming existing buildings into innovative learning environments. Its portfolio of K-12 projects includes Gibbs School in Arlington, Eliot Innovation School in Boston, and Methuen High School in Methuen.