Herman H. Battle Academy

The new Herman H. Battle Academy in downtown Chattanooga is one of only two new urban schools undertaken by Hamilton County in many years.
The site for Battle Academy consists of only three acres. The new school was programmed to include a daycare facility in addition to the typical kindergarten through fifth-grade functions. Also, the building had to be designed to serve as a community center.
The design is urban in nature and pays homage to surrounding structures of historical significance. Masonry detailing brings the scale of the building down to the occupant’s level. The building took on an L shape in an effort to maximize space available for parking and playgrounds while maintaining a hard street edge on two sides.
The two-story school is divisible into two distinct parts. One contains classrooms, administrative offices and support spaces. The other portions house a large dining area, kitchen, indoor play/assembly space, and the library or media center. The second portion of the building can serve the community after school hours and during the summer months, while the first remains accessible only to students and staff when school is in session.
Battle Academy is the first school in the area to offer a “green roof” where students will be able to cultivate plants and have other outdoor activities.

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