The $25 million, 250,000-square-foot Booker T. Washington High School honors its local heritage in Tulsa, Okla., with features designed to celebrate the school's history. The new building replaces a cherished but outdated school that was constructed in 1950.
Inside the main entry hall, an exhibit area showcases photos and artifacts that reflect the school's history as a cornerstone within north Tulsa's African-American community. The space opens into a large, light-filled commons area — a gathering place that was a top priority for students and community members involved in the school's planning.
During the planning process, a community-based committee worked with a number of students to oversee the creation of a brick mural depicting highlights of the life of Booker T. Washington, the school's namesake. The mural appears over the school's main entrance.
A new media center with multimedia resources is situated near the main entrance for school and community use. The school also has an 800-seat auditorium with sightlines and acoustics, an eight-lane swimming pool, and a landscaped terrace.
Architecture and engineering services for the project were provided by Dewberry (Tulsa, Okla.).
