North Harford High School

Awards:
AIA Potomac Valley Chapter, Citation Award
AIA MD State, Citation Award

The renovation and modernization of North Harford High School celebrates its unique agrarian setting in the rolling hills of rural northern Maryland. The existing building was a non-descript structure of the 1950s, which had reached the end of its functional life expectancy. A renovated, modernized, and expanded facility was required to meet the current and future needs of the community. The previous building was physically uninspiring and lacked a meaningful identity. Its circulation was not clearly organized, its ceiling heights were low, and the interior spaces were dark with limited views to the exterior.

Through proper analysis, a new architectural vision of openness and connection yielded a transformed physical and spatial plan. The building plan is organized around a naturally-lit plaza and a central, enclosed environmental courtyard. The spaces weave together and create a transparency with "outdoor rooms" for learning that are integral parts of the interior environment. The new 248,000 g.s.f. facility is a focal point where students, faculty, and the community reclaim an often forgotten agrarian identity and belonging.

The school's design promotes sustainable design and provides the students a greater understanding for the protection of our environmental resources. The design also fosters greater economic vitality, environmental health and occupant well-being. Some of the sustainable strategies include a geothermal mechanical system to heat and cool the school. All the exterior openings are oversized to maximize interior day lighting and provide bright, spacious, naturally-lit interior spaces with views and connections to the exterior.

"The finished product is an amazing, modern facility, and in many ways, is a magnificent work or art."
Anonymous quote from an editorial in the school newspaper, The Aegis