Knoxville Middle School
CMBA Architects
Recognitions:
K-12 Projects 2022
Project Description
The existing middle school building was built in the 1960's and not conducive to 21st century learning. Spaces were lacking for student collaboration, flexibility and access to natural daylight.
With the future at the forefront, the new facility was designed with the students and teachers in mind. Instead of long, winding hallways there are expanses of flexible spaces to allow for students to collaborate. Throughout the classrooms and collaboration areas, the students have access to their choice of seating. Knowing that each student learns differently and are comfortable in different postures, they have the option to choose - which has improved the students’ engagement and focus.
Knoxville's primary colors are Gold and Black, and the school was passionate about keeping their school pride throughout the building. Knowing that integrating connections to nature has a positive impact on student learning, the design team incorporated blues and greens with the gold to pull in natural colors that also add vibrancy to the space. To connect the students directly to nature, the east side of the building was designed as an atrium allowing for large expanses of natural views that pull daylighting throughout the building. Visibility was important to the district, allowing for learning on display, as well as student safety.