Purdue Polytechnic High School

After finding the perfect location in the former Studebaker Automobile Factory, JPR worked closely with Purdue Polytechnic High School to design and program their ideal space. Located on the mezzanine directly above the Purdue Polytechnic Institute, the site allowed for an additional level of flexibility as both the institute and high school could share space if necessary. Not only did this downtown site offer students’ access to a hub of collaboration, but it was also advantageous as many of the students resided in the surrounding urban areas.

Serving grades 9-12, the tenant space needed to be secured to ensure the safety of its students. Securing the space while still maintaining access to the other tenant areas within the facility posed a challenge due to its location and the transparent quality of the internal partitions. Nonetheless, JPR designed secure entryways for both the building entrance and the high school tenant space. A large gathering space was also needed to serve as a cafeteria. To do this, JPR designed an area that incorporated common corridors that could be partitioned off with movable wall panels during meals, while remaining open during class times.

As it was difficult to predict how the program would expand, the high school required flexibility within the tenant space to allow for anticipated growth and the need for additional programming. As a solution, several flexible classrooms were created within each program, and to date, Purdue Polytechnic High School has completed two additional expansions.

The open and collaborative approach that Purdue Polytechnic is known for is enhanced by the large windows and glass walls throughout the building. The modern design, cast against the historical architecture of the factory, makes this space well-suited for a school that is reinventing education.