Denver architectural firm klipp, a division of gkkworks, has been recognized by LEARNING BY DESIGN with the Outstanding Project Spring 2013 award for Frederick High School in Frederick, Colo. LEARNING BY DESIGN recently released its Spring 2013 edition, which showcases the nation’s best education design and construction projects, from PK-12 to college and university facilities.

Photo courtesy of klipp

Technology, sustainability, community-use, efficient use of daylight, visual continuity and student engagement were central themes for the design of the new high school.

klipp | gkkworks served as the architect for the project, along with Hutton/Cunningham Group as associate architect and Haselden Construction as the general contractor.

Serving a tri-town attendance area, including the communities of Frederick, Firestone and Dacono, Frederick High School is meant to reinforce the connection among the communities and demonstrate St. Vrain Valley School District’s commitment to 21st-Century learning environments. Technology, sustainability, community-use, efficient use of daylight, visual continuity and student engagement were central themes for the design of the new high school, which was completed in August.

The organizational plan for Frederick High School consists of three interconnected components: the academic center (general classrooms and sciences) in the north building; the community center (fitness and wellness, athletics, visual and performance arts and student commons) in the south building; and the connector (administration and a second-level library media center) linking the two buildings components into a cohesive whole. Courtyards are used to articulate the “public front door” to provide
protected outdoor space for students to congregate, with majestic views of the Front Range.

The interior features extensive views and incorporates community references of the area’s mining and farming heritage. Sustainable features include abundant natural daylighting, enhanced building envelope design, high-efficiency mechanical systems, advanced HVAC and lighting controls, low-use water fixtures, low-VOC finishes, recycled materials, LED performance and site lighting.

The building of Frederick High School was made possible through passage of a $189-million bond in November 2008, where district voters approved not only the new high school but also district-wide capital building repairs and infrastructure upgrades. The project cost $34 million and serves 1,100 students in grades 9 –12.