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Washington Technology Magnet Middle School

Saint Paul, Minnesota

GREEN = Society/Culture + Economy + Environment

Environmentally conscious renovations and additions rejuvenate a traditional neighborhood school.

As a first step, the district and the project team determined the existing school would be renovated and supplemented by an addition rather than demolish the old and construct a completely new building. This decision not only served to reduce the project’s impact on the environment, it also preserved the school’s place in the history and character of the inner city neighborhood. The addition was located over the existing building footprint so no additional land was covered to achieve the expanded floor area.

Cuningham Group’s design solution reused 75% of the existing structure and more than 50% of its finishes. An interior roof monitor was added to bring natural daylight through three levels at the core of the building. The existing building envelope was updated to substantially increase energy efficiency and decrease operating costs.

Located in a 1920s’ building cluttered by numerous additions and remodelings, this school needed updating to fulfill its vision of serving as a place where the celebration and visibility of technology engages students in creative learning. Cuningham Group worked with the school to create a visible technology-based learning environment and clarify a multi-level closed hallway system.

The heart of the new facility contains a three-story Technology Gallery with light from above, like a streetscape looking down on an arcade alive with student interaction. Circulation paths from numerous floor levels now pass through the heart of the school in a clear and inviting route. Project labs redefine the scholastic program by creating interdisciplinary workspaces supported by technology.

The rejuvenated Washington Technology Magnet Middle School welcomed students and staff on the first day of school, September 4, 2007.