Westside Rockbrook Elementary

This project involves the addition of a 9,800 sf expansion to the existing Rockbrook School, originally built in 1961. The new space will include a state-of-the-art gymnasium, two preschool classrooms, and associated office and storage rooms. The addition is strategically designed to meet the growing needs of the school while reinforcing the Rockbrook community’s identity for decades to come.

Design Inspiration

The BVH team dug into the rich history of the Rockbrook area for design inspiration. The historical features referenced by the design include the Omaha Buffalo Trail, which wore a distinct path through the claim, the various rock cliff formations noted and the naming of them. The journal entries of G Beadle, an early settler, who stated the Nin na bah Creek was, “Filled with rocks and brook stone, the likes of which I think cannot be found within hundreds of miles from this farm.”

The site presents significant topographical challenges due to its narrow configuration and the need for seamless vertical connectivity between the new addition and the existing school. Limited options for placement required careful planning to ensure the new facilities integrate harmoniously into the school’s layout. These considerations also account for future phases of the school expansion, as this project is a precursor to a larger development slated for the next bond phase.

The gymnasium addition is much more than just a sports facility; it serves as a community anchor for Rockbrook. Beyond its primary function as a space for school events and athletics, the new gym will become a focal point for the surrounding residents, connecting the school to the nearby pool, playgrounds, and neighborhood. It is designed to foster a sense of belonging and pride among the residents, reinforcing the school’s role as the heart of the Rockbrook community.

As the school continues to grow and evolve, this addition is a crucial step in creating a lasting, dynamic environment that supports both the educational and social needs of the entire neighborhood for many years to come.

BVH recently hosted a graphic design workshop with the 4th-6th graders, asking them, “What could your new gym look like?” The future artwork will be inspired by the work submitted by students. This is just one way we love to include students and staff alike while designing a space that is unique to them.