Marshall Elementary School & McLoughlin Middle School

At Marshall Elementary and McLoughlin Middle Schools, cross-laminated timber (CLT) is the defining material and design driver, shaping both the architectural character and the educational experience. As one of the largest CLT school projects in Southwest Washington at the time of its construction—the campus was designed to serve over 1,300 students across two buildings. These schools are physically linked by a central spine that houses shared resources like a media center and kitchen, maximizing operational efficiency. The extensive use of CLT and laminated veneer lumber (LVLs) not only reduced the carbon footprint but also created a warm, biophilic environment that mirrors the surrounding natural landscape. This material strategy supports a calming, multi-sensory experience that nurtures curiosity, imagination, and a deeper connection to nature.

The design team prioritized sustainability and wellness from the outset, setting an ambitious energy use intensity (EUI) target of 45 kBtu/sf/year. To meet these goals, the project leveraged the thermal performance and carbon-sequestering benefits of CLT, using it extensively across the second floor and roof area. A rigorous value analysis process optimized deck spans and minimized structural depth, ensuring cost-effectiveness without compromising performance. The schools’ interiors are organized into learning community clusters, each with collaboration zones, maker spaces, and fabrication labs that support hands-on, interdisciplinary learning. The integration of CLT and other natural materials not only aligns with the district’s sustainability goals but also elevates the educational environment, making it a place where students feel inspired, supported, and connected to the world around them.