Arroyo del Oso ("Bear Creek") is a tight-knit Northeast Albuquerque neighborhood with a welcoming and active community. To honor the amity and ambition of the area, the design for the new Arroyo del Oso Elementary School draws inspiration from the school's emblem, the Heartline Bear, which is a traditional Zuni symbol representing the transition of passions into wisdom. This cultural resonance led ROMA to a broader exploration of New Mexico’s Indigenous artistic traditions, particularly Native American jewelry.

Southwestern jewelry commonly integrates turquoise, coral, mother of pearl, jet, and silver. These materials became the basis for the project’s color and finish palettes. The technique of “channel-inlay,” where stones are meticulously fitted between silver channels, inspired a façade system composed of metal panels with raised seams outlining distinct fields of color. The resulting effect is a layered composition echoing the care and precision of inlay craftsmanship. Translating traditional artistry into architectural expression, the design pays homage to the enduring creative and cultural legacy that defines the local community and the greater New Mexico.

The existing school building had to remain fully operational throughout the entirety of construction. This required the careful examination of the necessary conditions for possible sequencing and the development of a comprehensive phasing plan in close collaboration with Albuquerque Public Schools, the contractor, and school officials. The existing school was used continuously until the new school was built and ready for staff and students to move in. Recognizing the necessity of recreational time outside, the existing playground was also designed around to ensure it would be safe and functional throughout construction.

A monumental concrete Heartline Bear that had served as the entrance gate to the campus for decades was preserved and revitalized so that it could continue its task of welcoming and inspiring students. The library also hosts a large turquoise bear, encouraging curiosity and learning while promoting a sense of community identity.

Achieving LEED Silver certification, the facility features sustainable strategies such as advanced daylighting, passive and active solar systems, low-flow fixtures, all-LED lighting, low-VOC materials, and the diversion of half of construction waste from landfills. The project further enhances student and staff well-being through acoustically optimized learning spaces, flexible collaboration zones, and a careful site layout which allowed the preservation of many mature trees offering connection to nature.