JWB

Chatsworth, Georgia

Client: Murray County Board of Education

Capacity: 1,150
Area: 145,532 sq. ft.
Total Cost: $14,366,078.00
Cost/Square Foot: $98.71
Completion: August 2004

The vernacular architecture of the center entry pavilion at Bagley Middle School in Murray County, Georgia gets its nostalgic inspiration by paying homage to a vintage 1940s rock school "house" in the district through incorporating curved details reminiscent of that era. The 145,532 square foot building has a beautiful bronzed colored roof, coordinating exterior brick, saw tooth detailing, and heavy Richardsonian arches.

The pinwheel design of the school organizes the wings according to grade level and allows for one point supervision. The large scale, wide corridors, and extensive use of windows and glass create an open and bright interior.

The cafeteria features floor to ceiling windows on one side, along with a modern food court and serving area. The gymnasium can be used for dual purposes, physical education and performing arts, with the placement of a large stage. This also allows administrators to utilize the space as an auditorium for school assemblies and other events without having to schedule around lunch service, which is a problem typically found when placing the stage in the cafeteria.

Recognized "Outstanding" by American School and University Magazine