Waverly Shell - Rock High School Gymnasium/Auditorium Addition

Waverly, Iowa

This northern Iowa community had not made any substantial changes to their secondary schools in over 25 years, despite a growth in population and a leading athletic program. The existing smaller gymnasium and stage at the high school were not able to meet the demands of many groups needing to use them. After many years of dreaming, the Board was able to assemble strong community support and answered the needs of both the athletic and the arts programs.

As one of the smaller 4A schools, Waverly - Shell Rock will now be able to host full scale athletic events such as wrestling invitationals. Meanwhile, their growing arts program will be able to nurture music and theater students heading to the local arts college. Each activity focus is now fully supported by up-to-date student spaces. Alongside the new gym is a full complement of locker rooms, practice rooms and a weight room. Next to the auditorium are cast rooms, set storage areas and a full stage area including an orchestra pit. Each of the major spaces are designed for multiple uses. The 1,600 spectator seat gymnasium can be divided into four practice gyms, including a batting cage area. The auditorium, configured for over 900 seats, is arranged to enable lecture series classes in addition to full scale productions.

An added benefit to the high school was the inclusion of a commons area and a new main entrance to the facility. A flowing terrazzo design directs incoming students and spectators through the commons to their areas of interest. High school booster clubs now have a specific area for concessions and the school has a place to display awards and trophies.