Farmington High School is getting a state-of-the-art makeover with the help of FBT Architects. The concept behind Farmington High’s design is to create a modern space conducive to learning and collaboration. The plan utilizes 60,000 square feet of existing structures, while adding another 208,000 sf of brand new construction. The heart of the new school features a central student commons area designed as a flexible, multi-use space that includes a cafeteria, a venue for school assemblies, and most important, a place for student collaboration.

Adjoining the central commons are two multi-story classroom wings that include the math, science, social studies, and English departments. Both wings have open project lab areas to further encourage group study and promote 21st century learning skills. All buildings surround an outdoor courtyard and green space, a layout designed to boost security by decreasing outside access to campus.

Technology is another defining theme, and is reflected in the fact that the new look is more like Google’s Silicon Valley campus than the current Farmington High. Large vertical windows capture the abundant desert light, while high open ceilings and colorful metal panels add a contemporary hi-tech feel. The design incorporates the perfect balance between form and function, and the whole project gives a nod towards sustainability.

FBT’s design will completely transform the current 50-year-old campus in three phases to ensure minimal disruption — sorry, kids! – and keep the campus functional throughout the school year. The construction phasing is scheduled to take advantage of summer breaks and is key not only in minimizing student disruption, but is also a money saver for the district, requiring fewer portable classrooms and temporary solutions during the 27 months of construction. Phase one is targeted for completion by fall 2016, phase two for the following autumn, and the project is expected to wrap up by summer 2018.

FBT has created a design to inspire and facilitate student success, and as future classes of Farmington High School students prepare for life in the real world, they’ll have all the advantages of a modern, 21st century learning environment.