To address the diverse needs of Wy’east Middle School’s unique student population, an interactive planning process was undertaken to engage the district, staff, students, and community members. This collaboration enabled the design team to develop tailored requirements for the replacement middle school, ensuring it will reflect the needs of students both now and in the future.
ONE | SOME | MANY | ALL
The concept of “One, Some, Many, All” was created to ensure the new 134,000 SF school would cater to the learning and teaching styles of Wy’east’s students and staff. By widening hallways and thresholds, increasing transparency, and finding efficiencies in areas of the plan, the facility provides a wide range of dedicated spaces – from small nooks for one or two students, to large spaces for entire grades or the entire school population. These spaces encourage positive social relationships by allowing students to find spaces throughout the day where they feel most comfortable.
PROSPECT AND REFUGE
Wy’east’s design embraces biophilic principles of prospect and refuge by eliminating visual barriers and enhancing connections to natural light and outdoor views. This openness encourages freedom of movement, allowing students to control how they navigate the school and choose their spaces. From second-floor vantage points, such as the bridges overlooking the commons, students can pause, connect with friends, and plan their next destination in a relaxed, open environment.
MASS TIMBER
The design features dowel-laminated timber (DLT), showcased prominently in the art room, commons, and library. Serving as both the structural deck and finish material, the DLT enhances the aesthetic of these spaces. In the commons and library, integrated channels within the DLT house acoustic materials, effectively reducing noise levels. Meticulous planning ensured that utilities were discreetly concealed in the channels between the panels, preserving the natural beauty of the wood.
OUTDOOR PROGRAMMING
A secure courtyard at the center of the design provides outdoor learning opportunities with a covered area, seating, power, data, and water connections. The exterior courtyard contains the same varied scales as the building’s interior, from benches for one to a turf area for all.
COMMUNITY
The new commons boasts double-height windows and multiple doors that open onto a large concrete patio and grand lawn. These spaces are used during the week for students to eat lunch, either indoors or outside. On evenings or weekends, these spaces are available for events with the community, such as the annual barbecue the school hosts each year.