Project File: Dining in style

Institutionalized eating in crowded conditions made lunchtime a dreaded time at Yukon High School, Yukon, Okla. When a bond issue came up for a vote, the school principal expressed her visions for a new dining atmosphere, formulated during her travels to Europe, to the superintendent. The bond passed.

The challenge was to create separate eating areas without dividing the room. Two terrazzo walkways and vaulted ceilings above the walkways visually break down the rooms. The total project was 19,335 square feet.

Four stations in the food court offer different types of cuisine. The canopied Bistro resembles a deli in design and food choice. Etcetera is done in Italian tile, has an arched serving area, and offers a different ethnic food each day. The J.V. Grill is an open-flame grill concept in stainless steel and brick, with pop-up letters and sconces. The Miller Cafe features cafeteria-style choices, but is flanked by columns and Roman sconces.

Brick, terrazzo, tile and faux-finished leather columns all help create a Tuscan atmosphere, along with a 16-foot by 8-foot mural of a Tuscan countryside.

Half walls with capstones, barstools and counters continue the multi-level look of the existing structure. Supervision is easier because of less crowded conditions, and student behavior has improved dramatically.

The architect is FDW Associates, Inc. (Oklahoma City).