East Dubuque high school/middle school excels academically, ranking in the top 6% statewide, yet their aging facility had security concerns and an institutional feel. The goals of the renovation were to provide a safe and inspiring environment and to be accessible by the community.

A new secure entrance also made way for a new iconic identity for the school with bold colors and branding along with a collaborative office suite for administration. Entrance security was increased through the reconfigured layout which considers traffic flow, visibility, and staff presence. Soft, comfortable seating areas were added just beyond the entrance to invite students, parents, and staff to engage in conversation and build relationships.

The reimagined cafeteria space created better flow and access to food items, increased visibility for supervision, and added comfortable seating options for large group and community gatherings.

A fitness/weight room was added to allow for daylight to enter the space and to increase the floorspace for safe use of fitness equipment, and to also be separately secured from the rest of the school for after-hours use.

This project has elevated school and community pride and is now a gathering place for people in and out of the school day.