kapa'a intermediate school
KAUA'I, HAWAII
kapa'a intermediate school
1997
Pitched roofs with gabled ends, excellent integration with the existing topography, and an excellent use of color, texture and form established a complimentary design which will fit well with the new residential community that is expected to grow around the school.
Once distinctive design feature of the school is the use of varied finish concrete block as the primary construction material. Split faced, scored, and smooth finished blocks are all used extensively in the school. These elements were used in different sizes and paint finishes to create patterns and to create visual interest. Attention to color use also minimizes for this school which is surrounded by cane fields.
The new school functions very well in the temperate Kapaa environment. An abundance of windows allow cooling breezes to flow through as well as provide lots of ambient light. Energy efficient features made up of natural ventilation for 24 of 26 buildings. The only buildings that were air conditioned were the library and music buildings.
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The success of the project was apparent through the response of the school administration, State of Hawaii, as well as the community. All those involved contributed ideas for the design of the school, so that it could match that or it's program.