Minnekhada Middle School

Coquitlam, BC

The 600-student capacity middle school is designed with 21st-century learning principles, customized through extensive collaboration with School District staff, administrators, and students. The spatial configuration prioritizes flexible, collaborative areas in the building's core, rather than dividing the school into smaller learning pods. Working closely with educators, the design allows classrooms to open into the central commons, with the option for teachers to close off spaces when needed. This layout benefits students by offering a variety of classroom and exploration spaces, including those for technology, fine and performing arts, home economics, and technical education.

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The school also features Neighbourhood Learning Centre spaces, including a gym with a full-size basketball court and a stage that connects to a multi-purpose room.

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The building’s form and ‘Parti’—an upward thrust symbolizing growth, similar to a sprout breaking through the soil—reflect the developmental stage of middle school students. This is expressed through the rooflines, which angle upward toward the core of the school. Green features include energy-efficient lighting, mechanical systems, water-efficient plumbing fixtures, and sustainable landscaping.

Value

Size

Delivery Method

Date

Location 
Client

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$21,184,000

8,250 m²

Stipulated Sum

2020

Coquitlam, BC

School District No. 43