For Forest Grove School District, the Neil Armstrong Middle School cafeteria renovation reimagines an aging, highly utilized space as a brighter, more accessible, and student-centered environment. Funded through bond proceeds and a School Nutrition Program grant, the project addresses both the operational needs of daily meal service and the cafeteria’s broader role as a gathering place for the school community.
The design reorganizes the serving area to create clearer, more orderly lunch queues and improve circulation during peak meal periods. Distinct serving stations, intuitive graphics, and more legible pathways help students move through the space efficiently while reducing congestion. Accessibility improvements were integrated throughout to create a more inclusive experience for students, staff, and community members.
Natural light, warm wood finishes, bold school colors, and varied seating zones give the cafeteria a more welcoming identity. New skylights and carefully placed openings bring daylight deeper into the large interior, while acoustic ceiling elements help manage noise and define areas within the expansive room. Flexible tables, perimeter seating, and informal gathering spaces allow the cafeteria to support dining, socializing, school events, and other activities throughout the day.
Student input played an important role in shaping the design. Through surveys and engagement, the team gathered direct feedback about what would make the cafeteria more comfortable, enjoyable, and reflective of the students who use it. The renovated space also continues to support the school’s community food pantry, extending the project’s impact beyond the school day and reinforcing the cafeteria as an important community resource.