PROJECT NARRARTIVE

At the confluence of the Palouse, Selkirk Mountains and the Spokane River Valley is a unique condition referred to as the Saltese Uplands.

At this intersection of geographic conditions, the mountains transition from basalt to granite bedrock. This became the inspiration for weaving a 250,000 SF comprehensive school into its landscape and the use of masonry throughout the campus. The results of deriving the proportion and complexion for the architecture from its geological place are human scale exterior edges, rich interiors, and meaningful exterior rooms and landscapes.

Entry sequence to this structure is organized around a dry creek bed which flows to the front door. The naturalistic organizing element guides visitors to the hub of the school, a highly flexible social commons which organizes all other programs of the school; social, academic, wellness, and the arts.

A thin building cross section intentionally offers connections to the exterior to ensure users know where they are within the school. Views and daylight are present throughout the facility.

Intersections throughout the planning are met with informal learning zones and social connections between the floors. Intentional program exposure opportunities anchor these intersections to encourage learning environments that reach students outside of seminar type classrooms.