Rutherfordton Elementary SchoolRutherfordton, NC This new 83,900 SF elementary school for 600 students replaces an outdated 60-year old facility. Because the building is located on a plateau formed by three long narrow ridge lines, the plan is designed around a “Y-scheme” to sit on top of three conveying ridges. This strategy preserved natural areas, reduced the amount of required earthwork, and reduced site costs. The drop-off loop provides a winding path up the site to help slow traffic, and provides additional space for the large number of students who will arrive by car.