Located in Portland, Oregon, the French International School of Oregon (FI) is undergoing a significant transformation to improve the campus environment and better integrate with its natural surroundings. Guna Collaborative designed a master plan for the school that creates a “Heart of Campus” concept by moving car lanes to the perimeter and bringing play areas into the center, allowing for a more pedestrian-friendly environment with less traffic congestion.
A key design feature is a stronger connection to the surrounding forest, with the campus layout adhering to the site’s natural topography and providing ample walkways throughout the site. The tiered arrangement of buildings creates a dynamic visual flow while allowing for natural light and views to be maximized.
The project is divided into two phases. Phase 1, the Maternelle, includes the construction of a new 19,000 square-foot building for children ages 2 to 5, featuring 15 new classrooms. Phase 2 will focus on the Lower School, serving 1st through 5th grade with 32,000 square feet of new construction and a 6,000 square-foot renovation. A notable aspect of Phase 2 is the conversion of an outdoor play pavilion into a large auditorium, addressing the school’s need for a dedicated gathering space.
Designed with sustainability and safety in mind, the new buildings will include generous windows to connect students with the landscape, covered breezeways for outdoor circulation, and multiple exit routes for convenience. The project aims to improve vehicular circulation while embracing the campus's forested setting to enhance the students' daily experience.
