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Ben Franklin High School Master Plan

Thorough end user engagement and site analysis reveals the unique, key aspect of the school’s culture.

Category Education
Planning

Size 310,000 SF

Location New Orleans, LA

Year 2018

Opportunity

In collaboration with VMDO, TPA undertook the design of a Facilities Master Plan for Benjamin Franklin High School to chart a strategic course for the school's future growth. Through an intensive engagement process, the team assessed the strengths and weaknesses of existing facilities, offering multiple renovation and expansion recommendations. The unique placement of the school within the University of New Orleans campus was a focal point, influencing the project's cultural considerations.

Strategy

The project embraced an inclusive design process, actively involving stakeholders such as students, faculty, staff, parents, and alumni. Workshops, interviews, and surveys were employed to gather insights and perspectives. Notably, two students participated as interns, contributing to preliminary design schemes and envisioning concepts for building additions and outdoor learning spaces. The approach emphasized a student-centric and interdisciplinary learning perspective, reflecting the school's distinct culture.

Outcome

The Facilities Master Plan provides Benjamin Franklin High School with a clear, phased strategy that not only prepares the campus for future growth but also reinforces its distinctive educational mission. By designing adaptable, student-centered spaces, the plan ensures the school can support a diverse and expanding student body while fostering collaborative, interdisciplinary learning environments. This investment in the school’s facilities strengthens its role as a vibrant educational hub within the University of New Orleans campus, enhancing both accessibility and engagement with the surrounding neighborhood. The result is a sustainable and thoughtful approach that aligns the school's physical space with its long-term vision, creating lasting value for students, faculty, and the broader community. 

The Team

Paula M. Peer

Kevin Barns

Related Projects

University of New Orleans Master Plan

Trinity Episcopal Church and School Master Plan

Edna Karr High School

James M. Singleton Head Start Center

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850 Tchoupitoulas Street
New Orleans, LA 70130
info@trapolinpeer.com
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