This project has transformed a windowless building on an asphalt lot into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly vocational campus with an identity rooted in the South Phoenix community. The three building campus houses more than 15 evolving educational departments that respond to the changing training demands of the local economy—from cosmetology to motorcycle repair to butchering—anticipating change with a host of flexible lab spaces and mediated classrooms. New spaces include tech labs (PC Networking, Construction, Trades and Welding), service labs (Medical Assistant and Cosmetology), general classrooms and career services. An integrated design effort with Canary resulted in eye-catching retail storefront components that entice community patronage. Students develop customer service skills as well as specific disciplinary skills, while contributing to the South Phoenix economy.
The original facility was incapable of adapting to the fluctuations of changing programs and lacked the dining, study, and social spaces that create a campus. To introduce amenities and support the need for flexibility, we redesigned the interior layout of the existing facility and added a community/classroom building, maintenance building, central plant and pedestrian courtyard. A new front door enhances the campus experience, providing a “one stop shop” for student services and facilitating local business partnerships.
Photo Credits: Caleb Alvarado Photography and Timmerman Photography, Inc.