Design Overview
Design Concept
The new, three-story high school is designed just west of the current building to preserve school operations throughout construction and partially set into the existing hill to reduce the building’s overall scale. Once the new building is complete, the existing school will be removed to make way for improved parking, circulation, and new fields.
Site Design
Thoughtfully designed to reflect the character of the Berkshires, the Y-shaped building embraces the natural slope of the site, offering scenic mountain views from classrooms and shared spaces. Its main entrance, facing east, features a welcoming plaza and safe, separate drop-off areas for parents and buses.
Exterior Design
Durable, natural materials, brick, masonry, wood-like finishes, and metal roofing, tie the building to the region’s identity. The new Monument Mountain High School is designed to serve both students and the wider community for generations to come.
Sustainability
The new school is being thoughtfully designed as an all-electric, environmentally responsible building that reflects the community’s commitment to sustainability. Its mechanical system will include geothermal wells—an efficient, renewable energy source that helps heat and cool the building while reducing emissions. From energy-saving systems and improved air quality to natural light, comfort, and quiet, every element is aimed at creating a healthy, inspiring place for students and staff. The surrounding landscape will feature native plantings and outdoor learning spaces that celebrate the beauty of the Berkshires.
Interior Design
Durable, natural materials will extend from the exterior to the interior of the school, providing warm welcoming spaces that are clean and modern, to support learning, creativity and community use both inside and outside.
Main Floor
At the heart of the main floor are two major spaces: a 450-seat auditorium to the north and a gymnasium to the south. Vocational classrooms are located nearby, along with administration offices, guidance, and health services near the main entrance. A light-filled lobby connects to classroom areas and serves as a gathering space for performances and events.
Gymnasium
Automotive Classroom
Auditorium
Auditorium
Lobby
Ground Floor
Built into the hillside, this level features the cafeteria with a dramatic two-story glass wall overlooking Monument Mountain. Surrounding it are science and art classrooms, vocational spaces, a greenhouse, and the Early Childcare Program (ECP) with its own dedicated entrance and play area. Outdoor terraces support dining, learning, and creative activities.
Second Floor
At the center of the second floor is the media center, a hub for research and collaboration, with sweeping mountain views. Classrooms branch out from this core, with special education and vocational spaces integrated throughout all floors for flexibility and inclusion.
Classroom
Classroom
Science Classroom
Science Classroom
Design Highlights
Classrooms are grouped in clusters of four with shared planning areas for teachers. Community areas like the auditorium and gym are accessible yet separate from academic wings. The building’s layout is efficient, inclusive, and connected to the landscape through natural light and views.
Overall Site Plan
New High School First Floor Plan (Main Level)
New High School Ground Floor Plan
New High School Second Floor Plan
