{"id":602416,"date":"2026-04-15T11:00:37","date_gmt":"2026-04-15T15:00:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/?p=602416"},"modified":"2026-04-15T12:00:40","modified_gmt":"2026-04-15T16:00:40","slug":"wak-tok-architects-renovation-of-a-historic-school-creates-harmony-with-nature","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/wak-tok-architects-renovation-of-a-historic-school-creates-harmony-with-nature\/","title":{"rendered":"WAK TOK architects&#8217; Renovation of a Historic School Creates Harmony With Nature"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Any renovation project requires an understanding of the spirit of the initial design balanced with updates that consider both the site and current inhabitants, particularly if the structure is an older one with a meaningful history to the community.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/wak-tok-architects-renovation-of-a-historic-school-creates-harmony-with-nature\/community-outdoor-in-school-wak-tok-architects-01\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-602419\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-602419\" src=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-01-810x1007.jpg\" alt=\"A person sweeps leaves outside a glass door, viewed from inside a modern home with wood flooring and minimalist decor.\" width=\"810\" height=\"1007\" srcset=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-01-810x1007.jpg 810w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-01-800x995.jpg 800w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-01-768x955.jpg 768w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-01-1235x1536.jpg 1235w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-01.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>An <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wak-tok.com\/portfolio-1\/outdoor-in\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">educational facility<\/a> in Takoma Park, Maryland is one such place. For more than 80 years it has been a fixture in the neighborhood. So when local firm <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wak-tok.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>WAK TOK<\/strong> <strong>architects<\/strong><\/a> was set to reimagine the former dwelling, the key was to keep its residential charm intact. \u201cWhen we were asked to modernize the schoolhouse, a beloved bungalow originally built in the 1920s, we felt it was essential to honor that legacy,\u201d says Wakako Tokunaga, founder of WAK TOK architects.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/wak-tok-architects-renovation-of-a-historic-school-creates-harmony-with-nature\/community-outdoor-in-school-wak-tok-architects-03\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-602421\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-602421\" src=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-03-810x1144.jpg\" alt=\"A modern interior with wooden steps, a floating concrete sink with a green wall, and doors leading to a bright room in the background.\" width=\"810\" height=\"1144\" srcset=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-03-810x1144.jpg 810w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-03-800x1130.jpg 800w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-03-768x1085.jpg 768w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-03-1087x1536.jpg 1087w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-03.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Indeed, as an outdoor nursery school, the landscape itself becomes a center for learning, surrounded by open skies and trees. The new scheme reinforces the relationship between each child and the environment, letting the outside in. A portion of the first floor was removed to transform a neglected basement into a sun-filled, double-height room for full integration.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/wak-tok-architects-renovation-of-a-historic-school-creates-harmony-with-nature\/community-outdoor-in-school-wak-tok-architects-04\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-602422\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-602422\" src=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-04-810x540.jpg\" alt=\"Children play with toys in a modern playroom featuring shelves, a large window, and a circular nook where two children sit and talk.\" width=\"810\" height=\"540\" srcset=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-04-810x540.jpg 810w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-04-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-04-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-04.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/wak-tok-architects-renovation-of-a-historic-school-creates-harmony-with-nature\/community-outdoor-in-school-wak-tok-architects-05\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-602423\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-602423\" src=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-05-810x540.jpg\" alt=\"Room with a large circular wall nook containing cushions and a blanket, adjacent to shelves with toys and baskets, and two small stools on a patterned floor.\" width=\"810\" height=\"540\" srcset=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-05-810x540.jpg 810w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-05-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-05-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-05.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>The mudroom is a central spot, the first point of entry where alfresco exploration easily moves to the interior. A glass wall opens to create a seamless indoor-outdoor threshold. Kids gather here and can put items on perfectly sized benches or cubbies.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/wak-tok-architects-renovation-of-a-historic-school-creates-harmony-with-nature\/community-outdoor-in-school-wak-tok-architects-06\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-602424\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-602424\" src=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-06-810x1215.jpg\" alt=\"A wooden staircase with a handrail leads up beside large windows, through which trees and a modern exterior are visible. Natural light fills the space.\" width=\"810\" height=\"1215\" srcset=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-06-810x1215.jpg 810w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-06-800x1200.jpg 800w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-06-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-06-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-06.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/wak-tok-architects-renovation-of-a-historic-school-creates-harmony-with-nature\/community-outdoor-in-school-wak-tok-architects-02\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-602420\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-602420\" src=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-02-810x1215.jpg\" alt=\"A modern mudroom with built-in cubbies holding bags, baskets, shoes, and various small items; a coat rack with a green jacket and a bench are also visible.\" width=\"810\" height=\"1215\" srcset=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-02-810x1215.jpg 810w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-02-800x1200.jpg 800w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-02-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-02-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-02.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Classrooms now have expansive views that provide an immersive experience for the students as they witness the change of seasons. The thoughtful placement of steps, windows, and transitional spaces fosters engagement that aligns with the curriculum, which includes an emphasis on ecological awareness.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/wak-tok-architects-renovation-of-a-historic-school-creates-harmony-with-nature\/community-outdoor-in-school-wak-tok-architects-07\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-602425\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-602425\" src=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-07-810x1215.jpg\" alt=\"A modern house with large glass windows opens onto a wooden deck. Potted plants sit on the deck, and a shelving unit is visible inside the house. Trees surround the area.\" width=\"810\" height=\"1215\" srcset=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-07-810x1215.jpg 810w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-07-800x1200.jpg 800w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-07-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-07-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-07.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/wak-tok-architects-renovation-of-a-historic-school-creates-harmony-with-nature\/community-outdoor-in-school-wak-tok-architects-08\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-602426\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-602426\" src=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-08-810x540.jpg\" alt=\"Modern house with large floor-to-ceiling glass windows and a small raised deck, surrounded by trees with autumn foliage.\" width=\"810\" height=\"540\" srcset=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-08-810x540.jpg 810w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-08-800x533.jpg 800w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-08-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-08.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>All-natural non-toxic elements were selected with health and sustainability in mind. An oak finish adds an organic feel throughout every zone. Buffed concrete floors and sinks are durable and easy to maintain, even when wet coats and muddy boots are scattered about. Raised platforms utilized for rest or play are finished with carpet made from recycled and bio-based materials. Improved insulation and a high-efficiency HVAC system have reduced overall energy use and increased occupant well-being.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/wak-tok-architects-renovation-of-a-historic-school-creates-harmony-with-nature\/community-outdoor-in-school-wak-tok-architects-09\/\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-602427\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-large wp-image-602427\" src=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-09-810x552.jpg\" alt=\"A purple single-story house with large windows, a bike parked by the porch steps, and autumn trees surrounding the building.\" width=\"810\" height=\"552\" srcset=\"https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-09-810x552.jpg 810w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-09-800x546.jpg 800w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-09-768x524.jpg 768w, https:\/\/design-milk.com\/images\/2026\/04\/Community-Outdoor-In-School-WAK-Tok-Architects-09.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 810px) 100vw, 810px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>With instruction not limited to four walls, learning is effortless, wherever it unfolds. \u201cThe school has always felt like an extension of the home, both physically and emotionally,\u201d Tokunaga notes. \u201cOur goal was to preserve the warmth, sense of wonder, and connection to nature.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>To explore more of studio&#8217;s portfolio, visit <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wak-tok.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">wak-tok.com<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em>Photography by\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.stacyzaringoldberg.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Stacy Zarin Goldberg<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Led by WAK TOK architects, the renovation of a beloved community school brings the outside in to support nature-based learning.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":78,"featured_media":602418,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[25292,1],"tags":[42870,242,45219,45172,44084,48011,48013,48012,48010],"internal_flag":[],"class_list":["post-602416","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-commercial","category-main","tag-adaptive-reuse","tag-commercial","tag-commercial-architecture","tag-commercial-interior","tag-educational","tag-educational-facility","tag-nursery-school","tag-takoma-park","tag-wak-tok-architects"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Renovation of a Historic School Creates Harmony With Nature<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" 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