The revitalization of Gering High School transforms the existing, 104,000-square-foot building for students in grades 10-12 while adding a freshman academy and expanding its academic offerings to ninth grade students. The project adds 55,000 square feet of entirely new space and renovates an additional 39,000 square feet.
The original building, designed in 1963 and embracing the mid-century modern aesthetic, is primarily orthogonal and organized around a series of courtyards. Bays of glulam beams support the curving roof and embody a unique identity and defining character. The design embraces and honors the existing school, creates more openness while enhancing the common spaces, and adds a dramatic entrance.
LOCATION:
Gering, NE
CLIENT:
Gering Public Schools
SCOPE:
61,500 SF Addition; 96,300 SF Renovation
COST:
$20.3 Million
COMPLETED:
2019
In order to embrace the original character, the intent of the proposed design is to keep the connection of the gym and commons area as light and delicate as possible. Glass walls promote the visibility of the existing building from interior to exterior, and the glulam beams and concrete buttresses will be restored and brought back to life. This strategy naturally subdivides and softens the interior of the large common space into more intimate gathering spaces.
The library will be relocated to the center of the school, becoming the heart and central hub of the school. Clearstory lights will allow for natural light to enter the school as the existing courtyards do. Much of the original character will be preserved by using the existing masonry walls to subdivide the space in the library.
New food service, an auxiliary gym, a freshman wing, library, and expansion of the auditorium stage are all key spaces in the addition. Inside the building, computer rooms, the Family and Consumer Science wing, Administration areas, concessions, staff work rooms, and support space are all receiving upgrades. Mechanical and electrical upgrades are also included throughout.
