The Bush School Middle School

The Bush Middle School reimagines the central campus site through a phased, context-driven design. A new three-story building and renovation of two adjacent structures support campus continuity while delivering expanded, 21st century learning spaces that foster collaboration, adaptability and wellbeing. Flexible classrooms, hubs and dining commons enhance daily student experience, while improved thermal and acoustic comfort promotes focus and health. A new commercial kitchen and multipurpose space strengthen operations and create a vibrant, daylit setting for gathering and learning.

The project advances environmental stewardship through mass timber construction and integrated site design. The timber system features glulam columns and beams with exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) floor and roof panels over a concrete basement and steel braced frames. Photovoltaic installations support onsite renewable energy and The Bush School’s commitment to all-electric equipment, including the commercial kitchen, help achieve a net-zero carbon goal. By prioritizing equity, ecological health and long-term resilience, the Middle School reinforces The Bush School’s role as a responsible neighbor and environmental steward.

A Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment completed during design of the Middle School demonstrated significant embodied carbon reductions compared to an equivalent steel structure. The project builds upon lessons learned during the design and construction of The Bush School Upper School, a Passive House and net-zero energy certified facility with a mass-plywood structure that was nationally recognized with an AIA COTE Top Ten Award.