Arcadia High School
Scottsdale, AZ
The redevelopment of the Arcadia High School campus provides a rare opportunity to reintroduce a modern facility into an established Phoenix suburban neighborhood. In concert with SUSD, and its commitment to leading edge teaching philosophy, the primary drivers of this project revolve around an architectural solution based on curricular goals and respect towards the neighborhood’s heritage.
The existing campus dates back to the mid 1950’s with a design concept considered “futuristic” and a vernacular as equally unique. Iconic circular forms, exterior circulation, solar control devices, and green courtyards were the primary design elements, still beloved by current residents. Low-rise building massing, simple detailing, and selective use of lush landscape within a desert setting were dominant design themes, integrating the surrounding Arcadia neighborhood. These same elements were re-employed throughout the campus to successfully anchor the school within the community once again.
The energy-efficient, 250,000 SF campus will offer minimal operating costs with an overall budget of $44 million phased over a three-year period. The planning process involved both the community and the district staff. The multi-phased project will emphasize minimal displacement to faculty and staff with construction from September 2005 to September 2008.
