The Frances Xavier Warde School
A reimagined PK-8 multi-campus master plan in downtown Chicago — 115,000 sf of innovative learning environments for 1,150 students across the Old St. Patrick's and Holy Name Cathedral campuses.
Two campuses, one unified vision for downtown Chicago.
A Catholic school reimagined for modern learning.
Guided by a vision of innovation and inclusivity, the Frances Xavier Warde School (FXW) Master Plan reimagines the Old St. Patrick’s (OSP) and Holy Name Cathedral (HNC) campuses to better serve students, educators, and the broader community. This comprehensive plan aligns FXW’s facilities with its mission of faith, service, and academic excellence, ensuring that learning spaces support modern pedagogical approaches while fostering meaningful connections.
The reimagined campuses emphasize flexible learning environments, integrating shared learning commons, small-group collaboration zones, and specialty spaces such as an Innovation Center and a MakerSpace. These spaces support interdisciplinary, project-based learning and personalized instruction, enabling students to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Outdoor learning is also a key component, with expanded green spaces, interactive play zones, and environmental science areas promoting holistic education.
Phased implementation ensures minimal disruption while maximizing the school’s ability to serve its diverse student body — reinforcing FXW’s role as a premier institution in Chicago. EDI’s services include Visioning, Master Planning, Pathfinder Schematic Design, and Design Development.
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