Sandra Day O’Connor High School (Phoenix)

Sandra Day O’Connor High School is an updated and revised version of a prototype built for the district several years ago. The revised plans enhance the design through programmatic and code changes. Although district schools of the past relied heavily on masonry detailing for architectural character, O’Connor’s updated, high-tech image adds soaring barrel-vault roofs and glass walls.

Five major buildings make up the campus: an administration/media center, two classroom buildings, a gymnasium and a food-service building. Phase two buildings include a performing-arts building and an auxiliary gymnasium.

The 200-acre site is a beautiful, hilly natural desert. The site development features a large landscaped courtyard; the buildings are situated at its perimeter. An existing wash was retained as a feature in the courtyard. Buildings, whose colors blend with the desert, are placed on the steeper, higher portions of the site, and athletic fields and parking are on the flatter, lower lands. This enhances views from the campus, minimizes site grading and allows for rainwater retention.

Additional Information

Other projects from this professional

Storm Lake Early Elementary School

Drawing inspiration from nature, Storm Lake Early Elementary School invites outdoor activities...

Boys Town Education Center

Design team Vanessa Schutte, AIA, ALEP (DLR Group Principal and K-12 Education Leader) Since...

Liberty High School

Liberty High School is an inviting campus centered on three academic concepts:...

North Kansas City Schools Early Education Center

The North Kansas City Schools Early Education Center is home to nearly...

Load more