Wisconsin Dells High School

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Firm

Plunkett Raysich Architects, LLP

Client

School District of Wisconsin Dells

Area

209,800 sq.ft.

Completion Date

08/2020

Tricia Shay Photography

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The new Wisconsin Dells High School includes 209,800 square feet of space that can accommodate 650 students. As visitors enter the building, they are embraced by a unique and welcoming central commons. This is made possible by combining circulation and lobby spaces with the cafeteria and part of the Student Resource Center. The raised roof and clerestories flood the space with natural light and provide an inviting atmosphere for students to gather throughout the day. Additional multifunctional STEAM labs off the commons area can be set up for both community and school use.

The commons takes cues from the unique geographical features of the Dells, such as the Wisconsin River, which is represented by a change in stained concrete color—from natural to blue. It also is influenced by the Witches Gulch, a popular landmark, which is represented by a curvilinear balcony face covered with different sizes and tones of dimensional acoustic panels in thin strips, representing the layers in the rock formations. A warm wood-look linear ceiling is incorporated under the balcony to help with acoustics and complete the nature-driven palette.