Catasauqua High School

Catasauqua, Pennsylvania

Firm

Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates - Architects

Client

Catasauqua Area School District

Area

191,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$21,500,000

Completion Date

01/2005

The architectural challenge was to create a commons area that functions as a town square, controls the flow of traffic and creates a safe environment. This project accomplished all with radial geometry, daylighting and a second floor overlooking the lobby. The lobby is the focal point of the school, connecting to the cafeteria, auditorium, gymnasium, main entrance and administrative offices.
A 20-foot by 20-foot skylight was designed to allow daylight to penetrate the enclosed area. In the middle of the lobby is the Catasauqua Rough Rider logo laid in the terrazzo floor. A grand staircase leads to the second floor where the lobby and areas of the gymnasium and cafeteria are visible from the balcony.
The two-story polygon shape of the lobby not only allows each wing of the school to be accessed through the main common area, but also adds visual architectural interest. The design creates a secure environment and enables visitors to reach all the public functions in the building without traveling through the building.
Although the use of radial geometry is not frequently done, the design proved cost-effective, helping make Catasauqua High School among the lowest-cost schools built in Pennsylvania that year.