Designed to take its place as a community landmark in the rolling Ozark hills, the new high school is the center of educational and student-life activity and a symbol of community pride. Planned for 1200 students with expansion capability to 2000 students, Christner designed the multi-story building around distinct functional zones: gymnasium, performing arts, fine arts, vocational education, and classroom/laboratories. The heart of the school is the sun-filled commons which can be secured from the classroom wing in the evening to serve as prefunction space for the theater and gym.
Size: 225,000 sf
Status: Completed 2002
The predominately brick and glass structure creates a striking presence amidst the wooded surroundings.
The transparent glass of the clerestory infuses daylight in the commons, and creates a beacon for the community at night.
Custom-fabricated, painted steel columns and struts, designed to recall the trees of the surrounding woodland, support the large volume.
We positioned the library to overlook the commons, from one story above, through vision glass panels. Daylight is brought into the commons and media center, inviting the outdoors in.
We designed the 720-seat theater to be on par with local collegiate facilities. Command over sound, projection and lighting is centralized in a control booth. The orchestra is housed in a special side chamber enclosure that can be used open or closed.
We took advantage of the beautiful site surrounding the school. Classrooms enjoy sweeping views of the countryside. Circulation corridors were placed along outside walls streaming natural light into frequently used spaces.
