Kanab, Utah is an otherworldly place inimitable in its beauty. When designing for this kind of location, one has no choice but to draw inspiration from the arresting natural features of the area, from the rusted reds and pinks of the surrounding cliffs to the vivid orange stratigraphy of geological formations, to the dusty tones of the earth beneath one’s feet. The design of Kanab Elementary is one that both mirrors and pays homage to its surroundings with a thoughtful, light-filled concept that ties the surrounding desertscape into an elevated learning environment. The school’s exteriors speak to the area’s multifaceted landscape with shapes, textures, and tones inspired by the natural world, while sweeping aluminum-framed windows make use of the desert’s ample natural light. Encased in the school’s striking exteriors is a cohesive educational layout designed around the needs of the teachers and students, featuring engaging aesthetics that further enhance the learning experience. The K-5 school features spacious classrooms equipped with ample storage and learning space, as well as a teaching wall, while breakout teaching spaces in each wing of the school accommodate flexibility in the learning and teaching experience. A centrally located, efficiently designed administrative suite facilitates student-teacher collaboration, while the school’s large, open library serves as a versatile venue for numerous school activities. The school was also designed to prioritize safety; the gymnasium, which lies at the south end of the building away from the school’s main entrance, features a set of lockable doors that safely sequester the gym and its entry vestibule from the rest of the school.