Rich Pond Elementary’s transformation is a story of community pride and progress.
Nestled in a rural area of Bowling Green, the school had gone untouched since the 1950s, serving generations of families who have farmed the land for decades. With input from teachers, parents, and local donors, the redesign honored the school’s history by incorporating reclaimed hardwood floors from the original building while introducing modern elements like flexible classrooms and ergonomic furniture.
Since the transformation, Rich Pond has become a point of pride for the community. Families talk about the joy of seeing their children learning in bright, adaptable spaces, and teachers appreciate how the new layout supports their work. Rising student enrollment and improved test scores reflect the profound impact of this thoughtful redesign, which has truly revitalized the school.
Type: Elementary School
Location: Bowling Green, KY
Industry: Education
Year: 2022
Scope: 90,000 Sq. Ft.
Steelcase Insights: Flexible Learning Environments, Ergonomic Solutions for Students and Teachers, Color and Design Influence on Learning
“Working with ORI made equipping over 90,000 square feet of space in our new school easy. Being able to live design, having access to their designers/consultants, and seeing products in their showroom provided us the confidence needed to ensure that our project would be done right. They provided modern, fun, and functional designs that are enjoyed by kids and adults alike who walk into our building. The partnership with ORI helped us create fun flexible learning spaces meeting the needs of modern-day learners.”
— DERICK MARR, PRINCIPAL AT RICH POND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
