Richmond High School for the Arts.

Richmond High School for the Arts is a state-of-the-art arts school based on an existing prototype that RRMM formerly designed for Grassfield High School in Chesapeake, Virginia. RRMM reduced the existing prototype to approximately 65,580 SF to reflect the reduction in desired student capacity from 2,400 to 1,800 students and to fit on the site. The site was significantly tighter for a school of this size (27.8 acres). It required the facility to be constructed on the football field while the existing school remained in operation. It included modern extended/project-based learning areas, a black box theatre, spaces for performance art electives, an enlarged auditorium with a balcony, a main (3-court) gymnasium, and modern state-of-the-art technology.

This design provided Richmond Public Schools the opportunity to operate the new high school in either a more traditional method (grouping of curriculum types with students moving throughout the building) or an academy or grade-house style (grouping of students into grade houses). The academy approach allows students to stay within their house for the majority of the school day. It also provides teachers, guidance counselors, and assistant principals with the familiarity that is enjoyed in a smaller school.

Once the students and administration moved into the new facility, the second phase, construction of the new athletic complex, began. It included a new football stadium with a fieldhouse, concession stand, restrooms, visiting team locker room, tennis courts, and baseball and softball fields. Safe site circulation with a clear separation of cars and buses was a focus.