New (Fire Replacement) High School, Lockney, Texas

Lockney Independent School District

The 1929 Lockney High School building was partially destroyed by fire in 2009.  Pragmatically, the building program required replacement of lost educational spaces with 21^st century upgrades to finishes, infrastructure, and amenities.  However, the community’s emotional expectations associated with replacing an iconic public landmark were a key element of the design process.

The constrictive site dictated a 6,500 square foot two-story structure connecting three separate existing structurally sound buildings.  The secure entry vestibule leads to an octagonal circulation hub and secure courtyard beyond, both used as student gathering spaces.  A reconstructed portion of the fire-damaged, original 1929 entry highlights the courtyard.  Common-use areas like administration, computer lab, media center, and 55-seat multi-purpose lecture hall are positioned on the entry level and are directly accessed from the circulation hub.  Classrooms and most student lockers are located on the second floor.

Exterior forms/materials of the load bearing masonry structure recall those of the original building but are combined to offer a contemporary facade.  “New” was visually separated from existing by glass-faced stairwells.  Interior finishes of patterned terrazzo floors, plastic laminate wall panels, and stainless steel railings offer high durability.  Instructional spaces are equipped with modern projectors and “interactive whiteboards.”  An automatic fire-suppression system is included.