Shonto High School
Additional Info
Award Winner : Accelerated Construction Technologies
Architectural Excellence : Situated in panoramic, remote northern AZ, the high school serves the Navajo nation. A Navajo architect assisted with culturally significant elements to honor the Indians. The Superintendent said they are “gorgeous Navajo motifs”. Design inspiration came from a trip to the Navajo National Monument and a hike into the canyon there to view Anasazi Indian ruins. The foliage and Aspen found in the canyon were the same at the top of the mountain. This was the inspiration for the hallway patterns. The canyon is depicted in the middle of the design and at the base by the dark area, which represents the Alpine foliage. The entry patterns are developed from mountain patterns that represent the Navajo Four Sacred Mountains. The floor entry and assembly areas display the Mountain patterns. The down spouts mimic corn stalk patterns intrinsic in the Navajo culture. The geometric pattern at the roof parapet was based on local jewelry and rug patterns of the Shonto region.
Cost Energy Effectiveness : Arizona’s weather requires energy efficiency. All our facilities are steel with a 6” wall stud instead of a 4” stud gaining R-value. The EFIS exterior uses a 1” insulation board for a net R-value of 25 for the wall system. Roof systems employ R30+ batt insulation and rigid foam insulation for increased R-value and sound control. Our electrical designs are 3-phase for minimum energy use to include energy efficient HVAC units that use scroll compressors and programmable thermostats. Energy-efficiency package use 1” annealed, SOLEX dual glazing, tinted windows. Close tolerances minimize air infiltration into buildings. Building was sited to maximize solar benefits all & window canopies were placed to control sun throughout the year yet allow natural light. Acted as general contractor for all infrastructure and site improvements, including utility & permit coordination on this 5-acre site. A value added service and cost saving due to the remote location.
Design Firm Name : Modular Technology
Occupied Date : 6/26/2006
Production Start Date : 12/1/2005
Project Location City : Shonto
Project Location State Name : AZ
Technical Innovation : Identical to traditional construction, this permanent high public use educational facility features slab-on-grade foundation with a combination of materials including EIFS, steel accents, and standing seam metal roofs. The steel construction provides added strength and durability for many years of commercial high public use. Due to the remote location and lack of local labor and subcontractors, an additional 10% of the work was done in plant than is typical. The remote location presented challenges in weather, labor, & reservation law, yet we met the budget and schedule. While the windows were raised to minimize distractions, they were raised to a height to enjoy a 270-degree view of the surrounding topography of red rock and pinon pine.
Total Square Feet : 30774