Aberdeen High School

Aberdeen, Washington

Firm

NAC Architecture

Client

Aberdeen School District

Area

204,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$42,510,370

Completion Date

08/2007

After fire burned the original J.M. Weatherwax School, the prominent reuse of salvaged sandstone panels from the historic building was a design priority for the new Aberdeen High School. The team adopted the display of “historic artifacts” as the concept direction. Three public areas were identified as appropriate, and pieces were selected to fit each area. The original J.M. Weatherwax sign was placed in the front foyer, three very large panels in the commons, and a series of smaller decorative pieces in the library gallery.

The display structures are constructed with structural steel tubes and plates used to float the heavy stone objects above a cabinet of medium-density fiberboard. Track lighting provides a sparkle and finishing touch for the display. In the library gallery, the individual stones, displayed along the length of the corridor, are connected by benches framing wall space designed to display photos of local historical significance or notable works of art by alumni of Aberdeen High School.

Adding another historical reference, the vinyl composition tile floor of the school suggests the color and texture of traditional terrazzo floors, complete with a decorative border.

“Excellent reuse of salvaged materials, which are displayed in a meaningful way.”–2009 jury