Neumann Monson Architects

Cascade High School Expansion

CASCADE HIGH SCHOOL EXPANSION

Neumann Monson Architects

Cascade High School Expansion
© Integrated Studio

CIVIL ENGINEER
Whks

MANUFACTURERS
Kingspan Light + Air, Mid-america Brick, Ppg Ideascapes

CONTRACTOR
Conlon Construction

MEP ENGINEER
Design Engineers

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
M2b

AREA
43090 ft²

YEAR
2014

LOCATION
United States

CATEGORY
High School, Extension

Cascade High School Expansion
© Integrated Studio

Text description provided by architect.

For many rural communities, the school and its activities provide a municipal heartbeat.

The significance of this relationship is amplified at Cascade High School, which is located in the largest geographic school district in Iowa (555 square miles).

Cascade High School Expansion
© Integrated Studio
Cascade High School Expansion
© Integrated Studio
Cascade High School Expansion
© Integrated Studio

With the addition of new administrative, recreation, and music spaces, this project strengthens the relationship between the school and its community.

New program supports the school’s existing organization and public interface while unifying a building that had grown piecemeal over four decades.

A deliberate use of clear and translucent exterior materials creates a visual dialogue between the school’s activities and the surrounding town.

Cascade High School Expansion
© Integrated Studio
Cascade High School Expansion
© Integrated Studio

Daytime functions in the gymnasium become an extension of the park it faces.

Clear glazing in the sunken gym connects students to the exterior at street level.

Cascade High School Expansion
© Integrated Studio
Cascade High School Expansion
© Integrated Studio

In other areas, the glazing is combined with translucent polycarbonate panels to create a pleasant naturally lit learning environment.

At night, as music and sports activities begin, the glazing becomes a beacon to the town – and those passing on the highway – as the building emits a soft glow announcing the activities within.

Cascade High School Expansion
© Integrated Studio


Cascade High School Expansion
Context Plan
Cascade High School Expansion
Floor Plan


Cascade High School Expansion
Axonometric
Cascade High School Expansion
Section

Neumann Monson Architects
T +1 319 3387878
Neumann Monson Architects
221 E College St # 303, Iowa City, IA 52240, United States