GARFIELD HIGH SCHOOL historic renovation/addition

1. 2009 Exhibition of School Planning and Architecture GARFIELD HIGH SCHOOLhistoric renovation/addition Seattle, Washington High School Renovation/Addition BLRB Architects

2. Garfield High School

3. Physical Education/Performing Arts Center (PEPAC) Addition Community Environment Garfield High School is an 86-year old historic landmark located in a culturally diverse urban neighborhood. The school has a rich history as the site of important community events, blurring the line between school and community gathering place. After a comprehensive, inclusive planning process, the design provided for a complete reorganization and renovation of existing space that better serves educational needs and allows for the continued integration of community presence. The design solution included space for the school’s foundation and community volunteer activities, as well as a teen health center, operated by a local children’s hospital.

4. Gymnasium Entry Hall- The “Concourse” Community EnvironmentContinued Cooperative agreements between the school and the city’s parks department provided for joint use of parking, the public plaza and the athletic fields, and the renovation included space for a teen resource center, operated by the parks department. The school is recognized for excellence in music and athletics, and the addition of a free-standing 83,700 square foot annex provided for a sophisticated performing arts center and competition gymnasium with separate public entrances, that regularly host events that are well-attended by the public.

5. Core LearningClassroom Learning Environment The primary project goals for Garfield High School were to transform an insufficient, educationally obsolete building with a design that would enhance student learning and achievement, unify the campus, preserve the building’s historic and cultural legacy, provide for flexibility, adaptability and safety, and invite community participation. The original three-story 170,800 square foot historic structure was reorganized into four distinct Personal Learning Environments that support multiple educational models including grade level teaming, departmental organization and interdepartmental clustering.

6. Library - “Information Commons” Learning Environment Continued The development of a three-story, daylight-filled central commons enhances social interaction and relationship building among students and staff. Up-to-date educational technology, including wireless, voice enhancement systems, digital projectors and interactive white boards, was integrated throughout the school, enhancing student achievement through increased learning resources. The new library is engaging and inspiring to students and includes a central, glass enclosed computer resource center for student projects. Formerly unsupervised, the main entrance now includes a staffed reception desk to better serve visitors and improve building security and student safety.

7. Main Entry of Historic Building Physical Environment The renovation of Garfield High School provided a physical environment that restored the rich heritage of a beloved, nearly century-old urban school while incorporating contemporary principles of energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. Energy conservation and indoor environmental quality were enhanced throughout the facility. The building envelope was upgraded and mechanical systems were replaced to optimize energy conservation. Daylighting was introduced in all occupied spaces, supplemented by quality electric lighting systems, reducing energy consumption and creating a brighter, more conducive learning environment.

8. Student Commons Physical Environment Continued The three-story open commons design, combined with operable windows in all classrooms, low VOC construction materials and a new HVAC system dramatically improved indoor air quality. Site preservation is readily apparent in the achievement of significant additional square footage within the existing footprint. Original architectural features were salvaged, restored and re-purposed throughout the project. Extensive use of drought resistant and native landscaping allowed for the elimination of permanent irrigation, aiding in storm water management and safeguarding water supplies.

9. Gymnasium Planning Process Community investment in this project was extraordinary; accordingly, the planning process was inclusive of multiple stakeholders. A 40-person School Design Team (SDT) comprised of teachers, staff, students, parents, alumni and community members was organized at the beginning of the project. Throughout a collaborative year-long planning process, the group met at least twice monthly and had a meaningful impact on design development. The SDT had hands-on experience, working with room-shaped puzzle pieces cut to scale and arranging pieces in proximity to one another. These layouts evolved into the guiding Conceptual Organization Diagram for the project, and ultimately, floor plans, which were refined and accepted by the team.

10. Main Entry Lobby Planning Process Continued The planning process began in March 2003 and included town hall meetings and workshops through which project mission, vision and goals were established. The schematic design was developed by March 2004 and planning continued to the design development phase in March 2005. Project construction began in July 2006 and the school was ready for occupancy by its target completion date of September 2008. Meetings were held with the SDT on an on-going basis to ensure that the project’s vision and goals continued to be met throughout construction.

11. Exhibition of School Planning and Architecture 2008 Project Data

12. Exhibition of School Planning and Architecture 2008 Project Details

13. Garfield High Schoolbefore and after images Historic Building Exterior ~ BEFORE “New” meets “Old” ~ AFTER

14. Garfield High Schoolbefore and after images Lobby ~ BEFORE Main Entry Lobby ~ AFTER

15. Garfield High Schoolbefore and after images Classroom Corridor ~ BEFORE Classroom Corridor ~ AFTER

16. Garfield High Schoolbefore and after images Gymnasium ~ BEFORE Library - “Information Commons” ~ AFTER Library ~ BEFORE

17. Garfield High Schoolbefore and after images Auditorium ~ BEFORE New Quincy Jones Performance Center ~ AFTER