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Vista Peak Preparatory School

Aurora, CO

"One unique thing about RTA Architects is their willingness to go above and beyond contract requirements in order to provide great customer service. They take care of their clients. I would like to thank RTA Architects for the many years of dedication to Aurora Public Schools. I truly value the relationships we have developed which have evolved into friendships.”

Cindy Sauls, Project Manager, Aurora Public Schools

Why

Connecting through experience of place.

As the first new high school designed for Aurora Public Schools in over 30 years, considerable effort went into making sure the school represents the state-of-the-art in terms of educational philosophy, building performance, and building flexibility. Developed on the 100-acre Aurora Public Schools Educational Campus, the high school shares a cohesive campus plan with a Pre-K through eighth grade school, and a future district stadium. Planning for the site included a Joint Use Facility for higher education and Public Recreation Center or Library.

How

Ever curious. Ever learning. Ever improving.

LEED Gold certified, the APS High School is designed to minimize energy use and provide sustainable architecture focused on the success of students and the community.  Displacement ventilation systems deliver air to students in a quieter and more efficient way. Utilizing daylighting in almost all classrooms enhances the interior environment, saves energy, and improves student performance.  Use of native landscape materials on site reduces water use and the building becomes a teaching tool with its green roof system and photovoltaic array located within an extraordinary outdoor science classroom.

What

Purposeful, engaging solutions.

A 49,550 SF addition started in 2017 will add classrooms, a cafeteria commons expansion, and a new wrestling and weight room. Work was completed in the summer of 2018 and increased the capacity from 1,350 to 2,250 students.A 49,550 SF addition started in 2017 will add classrooms, a cafeteria commons expansion, and a new wrestling and weight room. Work was completed in the summer of 2018 and increased the capacity from 1,350 to 2,250 students.

Project Details

  • Square footage:
    • Phase I: 215,000 sf
    • Phase II: 49,550 sf
  • Project cost:
    • Phase I: $37.47M
    • Phase II: $18.5M (est)

Design Details

  • 21st Century learning spaces
  • Displacement ventilation systems
  • Daylighting
  • Native landscape materials
  • High performance sustainable design
  • Photovoltaic array
  • Green roof
  • Learning Communities
  • Outdoor science classroom

Recognition

  • LEED Gold Certified