Quackenbush Architects + Planners designed the new Middle School for Lexington / Richland Five in collaboration with Perkins + Will’s K-12 studio. The 120,000 square foot design will initially serve 800 students in two classroom “houses” organized around a core of flexible collaborative spaces. Tablet computers will be utilized throughout. The plan is organized via a central two-story spine enhanced with natural light from above. Each academic house has access to a secure exterior courtyard that expands the learning environment to the outdoors. The program also includes comprehensive wellness and arts components, state-of-the-art media center, and a full array of specialized science and art classrooms. The design includes provisions for the future addition of a third classroom academy to accommodate a student capacity of 1,200.