Keystone, a private K-12 school, grew incrementally over the course of its 65-year history and now occupies a full block of former homes in San Antonio’s historic Monte Vista neighborhood.
Charged with reimagining a central quad created by the leftover backyards of the former residences, Studio Balcones and HiWorks Architecture collaborated with Keystone students, faculty, staff and administrators to develop a concept that was highly flexible, functional and exciting. The existing courtyard was an impervious asphalt space with little shade and a dilapidated carriage house. The new courtyard consists of a steel stepped amphitheater/outdoor classroom, with shade trees and drought tolerant plantings, backed by a large deck used for performances and everyday enjoyment. Educational components include rainwater harvesting, rain gardens and drought tolerant plantings.
