Emerson Elementary School

A beloved Berkeley school at the center of the Elmwood neighborhood since 1906 is being reimagined to better support future generations of students. Working closely with Berkeley Unified School District staff, including maintenance and operations teams, and the broader school community, Noll & Tam helped identify priorities that align campus improvements with long term educational goals.

The modernization addresses critical infrastructure needs while improving indoor environmental quality and creating more flexible, engaging spaces for students and teachers. The project enhances safety, accessibility, and energy performance across the campus while rethinking learning environments to support contemporary education. The result is a more welcoming and sustainable school that strengthens Emerson’s identity and supports student growth, creativity, and connection to place.