Cornwall High School

The design of this learning environment was inspired by the magnificent site and surrounding Hudson Valley region. With long train trestles common across valleys, this element lends a strong design influence reflected in the three connecting bridges; while the surrounding terrain of steep hills and mature landscape is mirrored in gently curving roofs. The main linear masses of the program are also sited to maximize day lighting and visual connections to the surrounding topography.

The high school is fortunate to have several unique spaces to support learning. Main entrance space acts as a multi-purpose, flexible use program area. Immediately off the entrance, a mezzanine gallery for student art displays overlooks the art room. The auditorium has been subdivided with moveable partitions to create two larger scale teaching spaces in the back. The media center is zoned for two full classroom learning spaces, in addition to a controlled computer learning environment. The science curriculum has elected to use a split classroom / lab model for the science rooms that maximizes flexibility in the program. In addition to the above, the outdoor courtyard provides ample opportunities for informal music, art and technology projects to move outside during pleasant weather conditions.