◆ Architecture
■ Master Planning
● Interior Design
■ Master Planning
● Interior Design
Newton Middle School Interiors
Littleton,
Colorado
As part of the 2018 Bond Program, Littleton Public Schools (LPS) identified the need to build a new middle school facility on the current Newton Middle School site. The new school replaces the original deficient structure, resolves ADA issues, and provides the appropriate space for small and large group instruction, creativity and innovation.
The design also includes space for the district’s NOVA and BEST programs, which serves K-12 students with special social and emotional needs and students with autism. This “school within a school” features a separate entrance, secure rooms, quiet spaces, and a fenced playground for younger students.
Education
Project Details
- 160,000 sf
- $69.5M (school and stadium)
Design Details
- Collaborative design process with nearly 20 DAG and User Group meetings
- Outdoor learning spaces, group learning spaces
- Spaces for NOVA and BEST Programs
- 21st Century educational environments
- Flexible furnishings
- Art, STEAM labs, and production lab
- Cafetorium
- Learning stair
- New junior stadium and playing fields
An improved learning experience that could adapt to future changes was a critical design element. Spaces of various sizes were created to easily adapt to new uses and provide infrastructure to support current and future programs.
The combination of interior materials, colors, and features creates an environment where the student is comfortable and motivated. Each pod has a unique color scheme and furniture layout to encourage learning and creativity. A “sprinkle” of red throughout the building unifies all areas and supports school pride.
With health and physical activity being prevalent themes, the school features athletic facilities rarely found in a middle school including an indoor rock-climbing wall, a full fitness center, four basketball courts, and an indoor running track.
"I wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to RTA Architects for their inspired design and outstanding performance on this project.”
The design concept was developed through utilizing the Design Advisory Group (DAG) process and established Littleton Public Schools goals and vision for the project. The DAG was comprised of 29 members representing community members, parents, teachers, District staff, and the design team. DAG and User Group meetings, numbering nearly 20, enabled the community and District to provide vital input throughout the design process. The design concept was developed through utilizing the Design Advisory Group (DAG) process and established Littleton Public Schools goals and vision for the project.
At the heart of the school, a feature wall of a stylized knight, the school mascot, adorns the cafetorium and overlooks the students as they participate in activities on the learning stair, eat lunch, or travel to other parts of the building. The dynamic energy of the design is featured in the “heart” of the school where the Learning Stair and Cafetorium are centrally located at the main circulation intersection. This high-volume multi-purpose space is the cafeteria, auditorium, and group learning/activity space. A feature wall of a stylized knight, the school mascot, adorns the cafetorium and overlooks the students.