Phase 1 of the Westerville South High School project consists of converting the existing auxiliary gym into classrooms and multifunctioning project-based learning areas. This included adding a second floor within the shell of the building. The existing main gym is now used as an auxiliary gym with an athletic addition including a new gym, wrestling area, locker rooms, concessions, athletic department offices, and group restrooms. The existing facility was an outdated facility originally built in 1959 with several additions in the 1970s and 1980s. The goal of the district is to create inspirational spaces where students and staff “want to be”. The design team met with students and staff and their overriding desires were for larger spaces, with natural light that will provide flexible learning opportunities. The design theme centers around the 5 philosophical elements: water, earth, fire, wind, and sky. The different wings of the building are branded by a separate element with corresponding color and graphics. The Phase 1 classroom wing is the “water area” with consistent colors and light fixtures representing waterfalls. A waterfall graphic was added to the exterior curtainwall of the courtyard with spectacular results. The classroom addition resulted in a new enclosed courtyard. The courtyard was adopted by the Westerville Sunrise Rotary who are helping with the funding for the Rotary Peace Garden. This will be purposed as a tranquil, calming area where students and staff can relax. The common areas are places where all elements come together. The project finished under budget and ahead of schedule even while being constructed through the pandemic.