Westwood High School
“I can say without hesitation that AAG has become the firm that our District looks upon as a critical player in our future growth.
“AAG is an aggressive, innovative firm. They quickly grasp the vision of the School Board and the Superintendent, providing designs that are unique and striking in appearance but still practical and affordable”
“AAG provides excellent designs that result in buildings that are very functional, cost effective, and that will serve the test of time. From renovations to a new high school campus, we have always been pleased with their work”
WESTWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
Richland School District Two | Blythewood, South Carolina
PROJECT NARRATIVE
This new +330,000 sf campus for 2,000 students achieved USGBC LEED Silver Certification in 2015. The facility emphasizes the school’s PROJECT BASED LEARNING programs, organizing academics into “houses.” The distinction of academic from larger, shared area allows the Media Center, Gymnasium, Dining, Arts, and Theater to be used both during school and separately for after school functions or for community use. The school has a thriving ARTS INFUSED PROGRAM.
The main building is located on the site’s natural plateau, while the outdoor athletics and stadium are carved into the terrain of the site. Traditional forms inspire the exterior design with prominent towers at the two major areas of the facility – the visitor entry and the student entry. Stone masonry adds to the aesthetic of a collegiate learning environment. Regional and recycled materials were used inside and outside. Proper building orientation, day-lighting features, and a high performance mechanical and electrical system support high-quality learning environments in the school while respecting operational cost and a long-term sustainable future.
PROJECT COST & DELIVERY
Original Construction Budget was $89 Million. Actual Cost of construction was $71 Million, $18 million UNDER BUDGET.
PROJECT RESULTS
Campus was completed in the Fall of 2012, substantially under budget. Facility received USGBC LEED Silver Certification in April2015.
PROJECT DETAILS
Client Richland School District Two
Architect AAG Architects
Construction Management MB Kahn
Engineering Power Engineering (Civil), Johnson & King (Structural), Owens & Associates (MEP)
Contractor LeChase (Building & Finishes)