Indiana School for the Deaf
Grant Henry Courtyard

Indianapolis, IN
Client: Indiana Department of Administration

The renovation of this courtyard transformed a dilapidated, marginally accessible space into a model for safety and accessibility. Today’s courtyard is a wonderful example of a space devoted purely to the imagination, where students, teachers and parents alike are inspired to learn and play. Andy Albright acted as project landscape architect from schematic design through implementation.

On any given school day, children burst into the courtyard along two arcing walks that connect the space’s four access points and divide the space into distinct zones. Because nearly all communication at the school is done through signing, the courtyard’s design allows teachers and parents to maintain a visual connection with the students at all times. Three age-appropriate play areas are color coded to clearly define play boundaries. Five unique gardens loosely interpret Indiana’s most distinct historic eco-regions. Art walls provide space to exhibit student projects. Flexible open space is used for recreation and gathering while an outdoor classroom sets the stage for learning or performance.

Prime site consultant: CONTEXT, LLC. Images used with permission.