Project Description
A hillside overlooking the Columbia River Gorge provides the setting for two new schools in the Washougal School District. The 122,000-square-foot building has a two-story wing for Jemtegaard Middle School and another for Columbia River Gorge Elementary School. In the schools’ shared core are a cafeteria, kitchen, interior courtyard, two gymnasiums and commons areas.
Extensive daylighting; energy-efficient heating, cooling and lighting systems; and secured entries are incorporated into the sustainably built schools. Structural steel and wood framing were utilized as well as concrete masonry block. Neutral colors, brick and stone adorn the low-profile building so it blends in with its natural surroundings and meets the restrictions of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
A track, sports fields and playground provide for outdoor activities and use by the community.
