Hildreth Elementary School

In collaboration with the Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA), this new 85,000 sf building provides an opportunity to create spaces for contemporary learning practices, while honoring and incorporating the local character and values that live within Harvard.

Throughout the design, the project team has been conscientious of the rural setting, as well as the history and scale of the town: finding inspiration in regional wildlife and Shaker design precedents, the concept is heavily grounded in the vernacular elements found in and around Harvard.

As one of the project architects, my role has been broad: I’ve been responsible for developing the exterior envelope, coordinating the structural drawings, writing permitting documents, and administering construction for Arrowstreet. Hildreth Elementary School is currently under construction, with a completion date of late 2021.

“Gabriela was critical to making this a successful project, overseeing exterior detailing and representing Arrowstreet during construction. Kids at Hildreth know her as Ms. Baierle, the architect - even if they don’t realize how rare it is to have a Latina woman in that role. What makes Gabriela stand out most is the way she mentors less experienced team members, and connects with the client. Without her, this project would not be the same.”

- Emily Grandstaff-Rice, FAIA