Lakehill Preparatory School – Classroom Addition

Established in 1971, Lakehill Preparatory School today provides small class sizes and individual attention to 450 students in grades K through 12 in a building originally designed as a church and school. GFF was engaged to design an addition to provide new classrooms, a larger and more inviting library, more space for admissions and administrative offices, and a new main entrance to the school.

The L-shaped addition will connect two existing wings of the school building. The addition also captures an existing outdoor space, creating a new garden at the heart of the campus. The architecture of the two legs of the addition is treated differently. The north-facing wing is rendered in a rough warm blond brick to match the existing structure, with similarly scaled and proportioned windows. Acknowledging its more public functions, the more transparent west-facing wing is clad in a syncopated curtain wall, with a combination of transparent and patterned glass and stucco panels. On the ground floor, this wing provides the new entrance lobby and reception area, with a large multi-purpose room supported by a kitchenette. Four new classrooms are provided on the second floor.

Lakehill Preparatory School’s mission is to challenge students to strive for academic excellence, develop a strong sense of personal integrity, and expand their horizons through engagement in the arts, athletics, and community service. This addition aligns with the school’s mission by enhancing the educational environment with modern, flexible spaces that support academic and extracurricular activities. The new classrooms and expanded library provide optimal learning environments, while the redesigned entrance and reception areas create a welcoming atmosphere for students, staff, and visitors. The new garden at the heart of the campus fosters a sense of community and connection to nature.