Mission Bend Elementary Library

Experiential Design

Professional (2023-2025)

Overview

Office : PBK Architects

Team : Erica Baumgartner, Brandon Gauthier

Location : Houston, TX

Status : Under Construction

Tools : Rhino, Sketchup, Lumion, Photoshop

Phases : Concept Design, Design Development, Schematic Design, Construction Documentation, Construction Administration

Project Background

Mission Bend Elementary requested an interactive sculptural tree to be installed in its library, designed to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of the space. Nestled in a corner, the tree’s branches extend outward to create a sense of enclosure and division. On the ground floor, the tree forms a cozy reading nook, while one of its branches extends to frame a dedicated presentation area. Above, the second-floor structure allows students to overlook the library below, offering a unique vantage point and further encouraging engagement with the space.

Library Renderings

Library Design Process Renderings

Designing for a public school means getting creative with materials while sticking to a tight budget. The district requested a luxury vinyl tile (LVT) floor, so to balance the hard surface, we added acoustic panels to the walls and used acoustic ceiling tiles (ACT) overhead. To tie everything together, we painted the walls, the tree’s leaves were custom-made from ACT for both function and style, and the trunk and branches are wrapped in a wood-printed wall-covering, giving it a warm, natural look without going over budget.