DLR Group and Page worked together to complete the updated and forward-thinking replacement for North Forest High School in Houston, Texas.

The Houston Independent School District identified a goal to create a 21st Century high school to replace the existing North Forest High School. DLR Group’s design process began by working with the client to develop guiding principles through a series of visioning meetings with administrators, staff, students, and community. The outcome is a focus on small learning communities to create a sense of community by breaking down the larger population into groups of students sharing similar interests, and safety and security. Located on a site across the street from an existing facility, 205,000-SF high school serves 1,630 students in grades 9-through-12. Students and staff collaborate throughout the new building, providing opportunities for interdisciplinary and cross-curriculum instruction. A centrally located community building combines the identities of the four SLCs, and houses student social commons, athletics, and performing arts. Flexible spaces allow the buildings to be configured for a variety of uses. The school’s landscape design also provides a park-like setting for students and staff. DLR Group provided architecture, planning, and interior design services in partnership with Page Architects.

Architect: DLR Group and Page
Photography: Ayala Vargas