2008 FAB AWARD – Government/Institutional
Co-Winner

Cuningham Group Architecture

Washington Technology Magnet Middle School

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Wanting to fulfill its goal of providing a place where technology engages students and creative learning is visible and celebrated, the magnet school collaborated with the architect and interior designers to facilitate a process to define a clear path for the school’s future. The results included a plan that infused technology throughout the four-story, 217,000-square-foot building and the design of an 86,000-square-foot “heart of the school” centerpiece addition.

• The design team had to work within the existing materials palette, which limited some design options and opportunities.
• The original building built in 1924 had multiple patchwork renovations and additions that complicated an already confusing structure. A total of 10 different levels created by years of renovations had to be bridged in order to clarify and enhance movement, accessibility and security.
• Technology and activities associated with a technology-rich curriculum needed to be more visible in a traditional looking building.

The “heart of the school” is the three-story Technology Gallery addition. The gallery’s surprise, technology-inspired interior is a novel contrast to the school’s traditional looking exterior, and much of the remaining interiors. Flooded with daylight and alive with student interaction, the dramatic atrium space is like a breath of fresh air inside the building.

DESIGN TEAM & SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS

Tim Dufault, AIA, LEED AP Principal in Charge
Margaret S. Parsons, AIA, LEED AP Project Manager
Steve Albertson, AIA Project Architect
Darryl Pratte, AIA, LEED AP Project Designer
Dawn Eikamp Lead Interior Designer
Janet Dray Interior Designer
David Witham Designer
Amy Randy, CSI, CDT Specifications
Stacy Connolly CAD Manager

Clark Engineering Corporation Structural Engineer
Hallberg Engineering Mechangical/Electrical Engineer
BKBM Engineers Civil Engineer
Data Core Engineering Technology Consultant
Adolfson & Peterson Construction Cost Consultant
Morcon Construction General Consultant

Cunningham Group Architecture website