Legat Architects
← Back to All Work

The 122,000-square-foot facility has 3 V-shaped classroom wings that connect to an enrichment core including a band/choir room, learning resource center, cafetorium, practice gym, and competition-size gym (seats 1,500).

“Colin Powell Middle School responds to the district’s vision for a cutting-edge facility for its students and community.”

Aware of Its Surroundings

The layout responds to site features, solar patterns, and circulation. Key interior spaces wrap around two outdoor courtyards that bring light into the building, support outdoor activities, and simplify navigation.

colin-powell-middle-school-site
colin-powell-middle-school-classroom

Nature-inspired Interiors

The interior color scheme borrows from the natural colors that surround the building to ease navigation and promote a sense of identity.

“Colin Powell Middle School employed the concept of flexible space by including a multifunctional room that serves as cafeteria, performance venue and interdisciplinary space, thus maximizing operational efficiency.”

Progressive Image

A triangular canopy with a glimmering metal base emphasizes the main entry, while V-shaped classroom wings convey a progressive school image on the opposite side.

Daylight Harvesting

A daylighting system brings natural light to about 90% of the facility’s interior.

colin-powell-middle-school-library
colin-powell-middle-school-geothermal

Geothermal System

A pond-based geothermal system helps heat and cool the school. The system significantly reduces operations and maintenance costs.

“Energy efficiency, environmental conscientiousness, and openness were all driving factors in the design.”

Process Imagery

Related Projects
Hamilton Elementary School
Stevenson High School Expansion
Research | Equality Seat
Niles North Aquatics Center