FBT Architects

A Celebration of Heritage at Navajo Preparatory School

Navajo Preparatory School is currently working with FBT Architects on the design of our Indigenous STEAM Facility. Throughout this process, we have been impressed by FBT's collaborative approach and their commitment to understanding and incorporating our values, cultural perspectives and educational priorities. Based on this experience, Navajo Prep selected FBT to lead our Master Plan Re-Design. FBT has demonstrated strong coordination with project partners, responsiveness throughout the design process and an ability to align architectural solutions with our mission and long-term campus needs.

Shawna Becenti, Head of School at Navajo Preparatory School

Navajo Preparatory School in Farmington, NM is a transformative two-story 37,000 SF Center for Design & Creative Arts. It celebrates the school’s heritage while empowering the next generation of student creators. Rooted in the school’s mission and the cultural history of the campus, the building is envisioned as a place where tradition and innovation meet. The design honors Navajo Prep’s rich identity while providing high‑performance learning environments that support modern creative disciplines.

At the heart of the facility is a 400‑seat Auditorium with associated pre-function/gallery space. The Auditorium is thoughtfully designed for music, dance and multidisciplinary performances, creating a new cultural hub for the campus and surrounding community. The building also contains classrooms and labs that feature programs supporting:

  • Film & Media
  • Visual Arts
  • Weaving
  • Design Technology
  • Music

The design moves beyond simply housing programs, creating a building that reflects the school’s culture, inspires creativity, and strengthens students’ connection to their community and identity.