Chesterton High School

Chesterton, Indiana

Firm

Fanning Howey

Client

Duneland School Corporation

Area

514,090 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$66,435,693

Completion Date

06/2000

Chesterton High School is a composition of core academic spaces juxtaposed with a host of special program areas. The academic area is designed flexibly to accommodate traditional departmentalized instruction, grade-level teaming, various school-within-a-school approaches, interdisciplinary learning systems, and individualized and small-group instruction.
Creating an inspiring and pleasant environment for students was a central goal. The 500,000-square-foot, two-level facility surrounds a spacious landscaped courtyard, used for outdoor learning, dining and socializing. Students also have access to a career and guidance center adjacent to the cafeteria. Project highlights:
-A two-level academic portion includes more than 124 classrooms/teaching stations, accommodating flexible instructional-delivery methods. Many classrooms have operable walls to facilitate large-group instruction and team-teaching.
-A 14,245-square-foot media center anchors the academic realm, with numerous adjacent labs, and multimedia and technology centers.
-A speech and debate area includes a large-group instruction area and mirrored rehearsal rooms.
-Extensive facilities are included for other special programs such as photography, art, radio and television production, and industrial arts.
-A childcare center includes a loft and a fenced-in playground.
-The school includes more than 113,000 square feet for physical fitness, including a gymnasium, fieldhouse, natatorium, wrestling room, weightroom and fitness room.
-The auditorium accommodates 1,030; support spaces include a greenroom, props construction room, mirrored choreography room and storage.
-An extensive suite of music rooms includes classrooms, practice areas and music libraries.
-A 23,500-square-foot cafeteria offers both traditional and fast-food service.
-A security center is in the administrative office suite: more than 120 surveillance cameras are positioned around the school.
-Relocation of wetlands on the 97-acre site provides an opportunity for outdoor study.
-Construction includes an extensive amount of steel products, including a metal roof, reflecting the local community’s industrial base. Concrete masonry blocks are used throughout the interior.
-An energy-efficient, zoned central HVAC system features 1,200 tons of cooling generation capacity.
-The technology system includes voice, video and data, and a high-speed data network for Internet access.
“Outstanding! Planned for students and the community; warm and inspiring.”–2001 Architectural Portfolio jury
“Great detailing in the woodwork, wall surfaces and windows. Nice, bright and friendly.”–2001 Educational Interiors Showcase jury