Sandy High School is located on an 86-acre site set against a forested backdrop. Walking trails, small ponds and intermittent streams run through native woodlands rich with wildlife habitat. Given that preservation and protection of natural site resources were key goals, Mayer/Reed assisted the architectural team with a series of grading studies that carefully fit the building to the site. The stepped configuration of the building offers multiple opportunities for architectural integration of outdoor gathering spaces given the site grades. Mayer/Reed met the topographic challenges by creating site walls that allow for elevation changes, while enabling universal access throughout.
Mayer/Reed designed site improvements that include outdoor use spaces and walkways, vehicular circulation and parking. Native plantings and green roofs further integrate the existing forest with the new site and building. Sandy High School’s science programs are capitalizing on the landscape as a living laboratory for teaching and learning about natural systems and ecology. The project is pursuing LEED Gold certification.
Owner: Oregon Trail School District
Photographer: Josh Partee
Sandy High School is located on an 86-acre site set against a forested backdrop. Walking trails, small ponds and intermittent streams run through native woodlands rich with wildlife habitat. Given that preservation and protection of natural site resources were key goals, Mayer/Reed assisted the architectural team with a series of grading studies that carefully fit the building to the site. The stepped configuration of the building offers multiple opportunities for architectural integration of outdoor gathering spaces given the site grades. Mayer/Reed met the topographic challenges by creating site walls that allow for elevation changes, while enabling universal access throughout.
Mayer/Reed designed site improvements that include outdoor use spaces and walkways, vehicular circulation and parking. Native plantings and green roofs further integrate the existing forest with the new site and building. Sandy High School’s science programs are capitalizing on the landscape as a living laboratory for teaching and learning about natural systems and ecology. The project is pursuing LEED Gold certification.