Community High School, Buncombe County Schools

For over 90 years, Community High School stood as a landmark in Swannanoa, NC. The school’s renovation and expansion were planned with great consideration for retaining its historical elements, while seamlessly incorporating new construction. This approach was to the stakeholders and the local community.

The project includes a cafeteria renovation and a two-story addition to the existing classroom wing, food lab and support facility.

Community High School’s smaller class sizes for its 120-200 students allows for more individualized learning and houses programs not found in any other school within the Buncombe County Schools system. Food and clothing pantries and a daycare help the high population of students experiencing food or housing insecurity focus on learning. The new kitchen classroom supports cooking and nutrition programming to improve their outlook.

The administrative addition includes a secure entry vestibule that controls access to the school. The cafeteria is filled with natural light from two-story windows designed for seating flexibility and social congregation.

The design team was challenged with a unique occupied renovation as the daycare remained open during construction. Working closely with staff and stakeholders, the project was carefully phased and completed on schedule.