The existing Conway High School campus was in a vital location for the community. The main academic facility built in 1971, was designed as an open classroom pod system and had only one science lab among other shortcomings. The design challenge was to allow the campus to continue functioning while replacing the existing academic core and dining facility. The design directive was to equal the community presence of three local, traditional university campuses within the town and provide a timeless aesthetic. Additionally, devise an open space that would create a proper sense of place and pride for faculty, students and community.
Phase I created an academic building with 10 fully dressed science labs. Flexible learning spaces were integrated into the design supported by transparency to core areas. Once the 1971 structure demolition was complete, Phase II created a dining hall which also functions for football tailgating, concerts and large community meetings. Finally, the courtyard and canopy systems tie the campus together pulling the new aesthetic into the remaining buildings.
Conway High School was awarded a 2013 ASID South Central Excellence in Interior Design Award Institutional Gold.
View Original