PS IS 217 is located on an extraordinary site on Roosevelt Island, overlooking the Manhattan skyline. The school was a pilot project for the School Construction Authority of New York, with a program serving over 800 students, kindergarten through eighth grade.

The building is designed as a miniature campus which retains the unique village atmosphere of Roosevelt Island. Within the four- story complex, five major building components were developed: 1) Classroom Building; 2) Commons Building; 3) Arts Pavilion; 4) Playground; and 5) Promenade which serves to connect the other components.

Each component is articulated with a distinct form based on their function, and the promenade is oriented towards a view across the East River to Manhattan. The structure of the building is exposed architectural concrete with detailing that emphasizes the way in which the school was built.

The project was designed by Michael Fieldman & Partners where Mr. Rawlings was Senior Associate.