Located on 20 acres of hot Texan prairie land is the brand new Evelyn Turlington Elementary School campus in Hockley, Texas. The K-5 grade school is home to natural ponds, a century old live oak tree and a centrally located library with generous views of the natural landscape. Designed by Houston-based SHW Group, the library’s steel portal frame pairs an agrarian aesthetic with an economic-minded structure built to encourage alternative learning environments. White gyp board is used not only as a material for walls, but also to create framed panels that reflect indirect light along the corridors and within the library. Along the ceiling, X-braces reinforce the frame, and there are two 12-foot diameter all-metal Element fans from Lexington, Ky.-based Big Ass Fans hanging from a steel I-beam frame.
While natural light can ultimately increase ambient temperatures, making it difficult for students to concentrate, the Element provides gentle air movement reminiscent of a light outdoor breeze. The comforting breezes align with the design goal of creating a natural learning environment for students. “Most of our student population rides horses, so we wanted the library to feel like an arena,” said Mindy Peper, principal. “The two Big Ass Fans represent the whole outdoor country lifestyle and make the students feel more comfortable in their learning environment.”
Additionally, the Element fans silently distribute the conditioned air in the facility, preventing hot and cold spots from plaguing the environment. “Both the interior and exterior materials were chosen for their long-term sustainability, innovative design potential and cost effectiveness,” explained Mary Beth Reuter, marketing manager for SHW Group.
