Westerville South High School | Phase One

Phase One of the Westerville South High School addition and renovation called for converting the existing auxiliary gym into classrooms and multifunctioning project-based learning areas; this also includes a second floor within the shell of the building. The existing main gym is now used as an auxiliary gym. The existing facility, built in 1959 with several additions in the 1970s and 1980s, was outdated. The goal of the district was to create inspirational spaces where students and staff want to be.

Students and staff told the design team that their overriding desires were for larger spaces with natural light that provide flexible learning opportunities. The design theme centers on the five philosophical elements: water, earth, fire, wind, and sky. The different wings of the building are branded by a separate element with corresponding color and graphics. The Phase One classroom wing is the “water area” with consistent colors and light fixtures representing waterfalls. A waterfall graphic was added to the exterior curtainwall of the courtyard with spectacular results. The classroom addition resulted in a newly enclosed courtyard. The courtyard was adopted by the Westerville Sunrise Rotary, which is helping to pay for the Rotary Peace Garden. This will be purposed as a tranquil, calming area where students and staff can relax. The common areas are places where all elements come together. The project finished under budget and ahead of schedule despite being constructed during the pandemic.

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