Over the years, the Wawasee Community School Corporation’s oldest school building, constructed in 1958, had undergone superficial upgrades — new paint, carpet, lockers, and ceiling tiles—to prolong its functionality. However, Milford Elementary’s underlying systems and mechanical infrastructure remained outdated, with some components dating back to the original construction. These aging systems made renovation of the school building increasingly impractical, and a recent study confirmed that renovating the building would be as costly, if not more so, than constructing a new facility.
Recognizing the need for a modern, efficient, and long-lasting solution, the district entrusted Elevatus with designing a new Milford Elementary School. The design process presented several challenges, particularly in identifying the optimal site placement for the new structure. Our team developed three distinct layout options, each accompanied by detailed visual renderings, to align with the district’s vision while optimizing space, operational flow, budget, and timelines.
Through a comprehensive comparative analysis, we provided the district with clear insights into the practical implications of each design option. This facilitated an informed decision-making process, ensuring that the final site selection would best serve the school’s long-term goals and the community’s needs.
The final design realized a school building with three classrooms at each grade level, K-5, plus two early learning classrooms. The building is designed for a seamless future expansion if required. The design reflects the community’s desire for a school that is not only functional but also inviting, inspirational, and an educational pillar for future generations.
The new Milford Elementary School is set to be completed in time for the start of the 2026 academic year, offering a modern and adaptable environment that will serve the district and its students for decades to come.
