Kirkwood High School, Physical Education Building

St. Louis, Missouri

Firm

Dickinson Hussman Architects

Client

Kirkwood R-7 School District

Area

22,574 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$5,230,000

Completion Date

04/2008

The physical-education building at Kirkwood High School, originally constructed in 1954, and later expanded and modified in 1962, needed significant renovation and expansion in order to continue to deliver high-quality educational opportunities. As part of the district’s $28 million referendum approved by voters in 2005, the facility was redesigned through a master-plan process.
The first phase of development called for air conditioning and a fire-suppression system to be added in the existing complex, as well as the construction of a new competition gymnasium.
This building modification changed student and public access from the west to the south facade. This strengthened existing student circulation patterns and improved safety and security by establishing a highly visible point of entry adjacent to the main high school entrance.
The new competition gymnasium is flanked by a concession area, men’s and women’s toilets, and a public lobby that is designed as a pre-function space.
Later phases of development will renovate the remaining portions of the building, including the former practice and varsity gymnasiums.