Kent Meridian High School
Kent, Washington
Location
Learning + Education
Project type
Architect
Role
Kent Meridian High School is a comprehensive modernization effort focused on improving building performance, extending the life of existing facilities, and reinforcing the school’s identity through thoughtful architectural upgrades. The project balances technical improvements with respect for the character of the original mid-century campus.
Challenge
The main classroom building—constructed and expanded between 1952 and 1961—suffered from failing single-pane window walls that caused leaks, drafts, poor thermal performance, and excessive heat gain. At the same time, the district sought meaningful upgrades to key student spaces, including athletic and performance facilities, while preserving the look and feel of the 60-year-old structure.
Solution
The scope included replacement of approximately 15,000 square feet of glazing with new high-performance aluminum window systems. Tall window units with translucent upper panes were introduced to improve daylighting while reducing glare, paired with integrated solar shades to control heat gain during warmer months. Anodized blue window frames and bright red solar shades were selected to boldly reinforce school colors and refresh the building’s appearance without erasing its original character. Significant coordination was required to integrate modern window systems into the existing wall construction, including modifications to adjacent interior walls.
In parallel, the project delivered targeted programmatic upgrades across the campus, including a full theater renovation, a new auxiliary gym, adjoining locker rooms, and improvements to the existing main gym and surrounding support spaces. Together, these interventions enhance comfort, performance, and flexibility across academic, athletic, and community-use spaces.
Outcome
The result is a revitalized campus that performs to contemporary standards while remaining true to its mid-century roots—providing students with brighter classrooms, improved thermal comfort, and upgraded spaces for athletics and the arts.
