Thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces in schools can do more than improve curb appeal—they support student well-being, create opportunities for sports events, social gathering, and ease foot traffic between classes.
That’s what Stoller Middle School in NW Portland gained through its newly upgraded courtyard and sports court, delivered by Wallace Construction.
Revitalizing Student Spaces at Stoller Middle School
Located just off NW Laidlaw Road, Stoller Middle School serves the Bethany community of NW Portland. While the school is known for its strong academics, its outdoor common areas were in need of modernization. The school identified an opportunity to better utilize its space by enhancing the courtyard near one of its main buildings.
The original area lacked clear definition and was not well-suited for student movement or interaction, so the district partnered with Wallace Construction to transform this high-traffic zone into a safe, durable, and visually appealing concrete courtyard.
Building Functional and Durable Outdoor Surfaces
At Wallace Construction, we specialize in commercial concrete upgrades across the Portland metro area, and this project was right up our alley. We followed a well-established process to specifically make sure the new courtyard and sports court would serve Stoller Middle School for years to come.
1. Site Preparation and Excavation
We began by clearing and grading the area, ensuring the subgrade was stable and properly sloped to prevent water pooling—especially important in Portland’s rainy fall and spring months.
2. Base Installation
A compacted aggregate base was installed beneath both the courtyard and sport court. This layer is essential for long-term durability, helping prevent cracking and surface wear over time.
3. Concrete and Sport Surface Work
For the courtyard, we poured smooth, reinforced concrete to provide a clean, professional finish. The open layout was designed for student seating, walking, and gathering between classes.
The sports court included a multi-use asphalt base, ideal for activities like basketball and other physical education needs. High-contrast striping ensures easy visibility and enhances safety during play.
4. Finishing Touches
To complete the job, we added proper drainage systems, ADA-compliant transitions, and clean edges that integrate the new features with the existing campus infrastructure. The result is a space that feels like a natural extension of the school’s layout.
Finally, A Functional, Student-Friendly Space for NW Portland
The finished project brings new life to Stoller Middle School’s campus.
Students now have a safe, durable sports court for daily exercise and a welcoming courtyard space for socializing or outdoor learning. As a bonus, both surfaces are designed for low maintenance—perfect for a busy school environment.
Whether it’s a sunny fall day or a crisp spring morning in NW Portland, students can now enjoy the outdoors comfortably and safely thanks to this thoughtful upgrade.
Upgrade Your Campus or Commercial Property with Wallace Construction
Outdoor spaces at schools and commercial sites often go overlooked—but when designed and built properly, they can become some of the most used and appreciated areas on the property. If you’re dealing with underutilized outdoor areas or aging pavement, it might be time for a strategic upgrade.
At Wallace Construction, we bring years of experience to school and commercial property projects throughout NW Portland. From concrete courtyards to sport courts and ADA-compliant walkways, we create functional, long-lasting surfaces built to handle everyday wear and our region’s climate.
Let’s talk about how we can improve your property—contact us today to schedule a consultation or request a quote.
