Combination Schools
Coolidge Middle/High School
Renovations combine two separate schools (a middle school and a high school) through the modernization of the existing historic building. The campus is designed to be half middle school and half high school, with shared spaces in the center. Flexible classrooms provide 21st century learning opportunities within the historic campus, with moveable furniture and integrated technologies that allow the spaces to transform to support various styles of instruction. The school also offers a community clinic, daycare center and parent center.
Associate firm: Architecture, Inc.
Expertise
Client
District of Columbia Public Schools
Location
Washington, D.C.
Scope
224,000 SF
Challenges
Combine two separate schools through the modernization of a historic building
Calvin Coolidge High School
The school's two service courtyards became glass-topped atriums. The northern courtyard is utilized for a flexible arts commons, while the southern courtyard serves as a shared dining commons.
Calvin Coolidge High School
The design team captured space in each of the former service courtyards for use as infilled classroom additions topped with breakout areas.
Calvin Coolidge High School
Space reconfiguration created the larger classrooms needed for the school's media and arts-focused curriculum.
Calvin Coolidge High School
In the 900-seat auditorium, elements were returned to their 1940 condition, including restoration of all the metal supports for the wooden seats and plaster frieze around the stage. The space was made more functional with a rebuilt stage, lighting, acoustics and digital controls.
With our design concept, we are connecting the rich history of Coolidge High School to a fresh new approach to 21st century learning.
