A Biophilic Learning Environment Rooted in Place
The Fairview Middle School replacement project is a design–build collaboration with Skanska that uses cross-laminated timber (CLT) to create a warm, biophilic learning environment grounded in the natural beauty of its forested site. The scope includes new classrooms, a student commons, distributed administration, a kitchen, a community health center, and the modernization of existing gym, band, and choir facilities.

A Campus Organized for Clarity and Connection
The campus is organized into three program bars. The north bar houses administration, a school-based health center, the library, and career and technical education (CTE) spaces. The central bar contains the student commons, while the south bar features a three-story academic wing. Classroom pods—each consisting of four general classrooms, a resource room, and a science lab—repeat across the upper floors. Shared flex spaces anchor the pods and celebrate views to the surrounding landscape.

Distributed Support That Meets Students Where They Are
A distributed administration model places staff in closer proximity to students and reduces the overall office footprint. The commons bar opens to the west and steps down the site’s natural grade, drawing attention to mature evergreens and creating strong indoor–outdoor relationships. Library and flex spaces are positioned to maximize daylight and capture framed views of the forest.

Inspired by the Region’s Architecture and Ecology
The design language draws from regional typologies, including national and state park structures and fire lookout towers—expressed through a robust masonry base, articulated wood roof forms, and generous overhangs. Interior finishes echo the layered experience of the forest—understory, trunk, and canopy—brought to life through natural textures, warm tones, and custom experiential graphics.

Transforming Existing Facilities and Strengthening Campus Circulation
A previously open breezeway between the gym and music areas has been enclosed to form a key circulation axis linking the east and west wings of the school. This new passage guides students toward framed views of the woods beyond. Targeted upgrades to existing athletic and music spaces enhance functionality and flexibility, including expanded locker rooms, a larger weight room, and adaptable performance areas.

A Forest-Inspired Campus Designed for Wellness
From its materials and massing to its program organization, the new Fairview Middle School is designed to feel like an extension of the surrounding forest—supporting student wellness, identity, and a deep connection to place.