The new Gretna East High School is all about connections – from land to sky, interior to exterior, and most critically, people to people. A special focus on site organization, building orientation, and access to exterior spaces and programs creates a unique learning experience for the 1,600 students in this rapidly growing community along the edge of the Omaha metro area.
Learning is supported through an academic courtyard surrounded entirely by educational spaces. Intentional linear movements off the central spine of the building create a connected learning environment of classrooms, breakout spaces, and outdoor learning areas to meet the full needs of the diverse student body. This layout allows students to travel throughout the day and eliminates the challenge of wayfinding by accentuating exterior views that draw users through the space and create moments of pause.
Beyond providing a safe and welcoming environment to serve the influx of students, this second high school celebrates the community’s culture of lifelong learning and embraces the history of the building site. Taking physical cues from agricultural themes, rows of fields are replicated in the building façade to create a rich texture and rhythmic aesthetic.
