Ottawa Jewish Community School Interior Renovation

Ottawa, ON
Client
The Ottawa Jewish Community School
Area
18,000 ft² (1,670 m²)
Year of construction
2024
Photos: JVL Photography
Located in the heart of Ottawa, adjacent to the Soloway Jewish Community Centre, the Ottawa Jewish Community School provides elementary and middle school students with a learning environment rooted in Jewish education, community, and identity. Figurr was mandated to renew the school’s interiors with a focus on improving functionality, strengthening the overall aesthetic, and creating a more consistent classroom experience.

The renovation began with a strategy to prioritize classroom upgrades, with corridors and shared areas considered as additional opportunities should budgets allow. The design introduced upgraded lighting, new finishes, a fresh colour palette, integrated classroom technology, new millwork and furniture, and thoughtful storage and student work display solutions.

“A renewed learning environment designed around consistency, flexibility, and community.”

Each classroom was approached with consistency in mind while allowing for adjustments that reflect different grade levels and teaching methods. Flexibility was also built into the design to support future technological upgrades and evolving educational needs.

Beyond the classrooms, the renovation considered how the school environment could better express OJCS’s identity, spirit, and values. Wayfinding, gathering areas, and display opportunities were used to create a more inviting interior experience and support a stronger sense of student community across the school.