Wigwam Creek Middle School
Litchfield Park, AZ
Wigwam Creek Middle School was a collaborative effort between Orcutt | Winslow, the school district and the school’s principal, Dr. Allison. Dr. Allison challenged Orcutt | Winslow to design a campus that would be an oasis for the students and an asset to the community for its many amenities. The 110,000 SF campus is located in the center of a new subdivision on a 25-acre site.
The buildings are designed around a central courtyard that allows the school visual and physical security at all times. The courtyard is the main organizing element of the campus, with all student access through this space. By grouping the public buildings on the south side of the campus, the public can access the gymnasium and media center/cafeteria while maintaining a secure interior courtyard and classroom buildings. These interior courtyards will be used as exterior classrooms and as a learning tool for students.
The media center was designed to incorporate the school’s philosophy that books are the heart of learning and should be respected. The space was designed to create a sense of awe and command respect from the students and public.
2005 Learning by Design: Citation of Excellence
