Nixa High School

Nixa, Missouri

Firm

Sapp Design Associates Architects

Client

Nixa R-2 School District

Area

225,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$16,134,750

Completion Date

08/2000

The challenge was to create a new community landmark for use by both students and citizens in the state’s fastest-growing district. Also, the sloping site was to be shared with an elementary school, but it had numerous sinkholes and was only 70 percent of the preferred size. The solution is a 225,000-square-foot compact multilevel facility carved into the site.
The flexible design is organized around a central two-story commons accentuated by a pyramidal skylight. The 3,000-seat gymnasium is complemented with an elevated running track and activities mezzanine. A full performance theater with orchestra pit, fly loft and 650 seats flanks the commons and has a separate lobby. The library is along the front facade to signify its civic importance and enable community use.
Classrooms are organized around a series of stepped courtyards. These secure outdoor environments provide a gathering space for special events and provide natural light to interior spaces.