Edwin Parr Composite High School was designed to be simple, understated, and follow an industrial aesthetic that met the requirements of both the Design Committee and consultant team. The industrial aesthetic is expressed in interior spaces and exterior building façade.
Sustainable Design Initiatives
The school design considered extensive sustainable design initiatives including exposed systems and exposed heavy timber roofs. The photovoltaic panel design is one of the largest in Western Canada for a high school. Construction materials and building methods focused on bringing Alberta sourced local materials and labour forces in the completion of the school. Edwin Parr achieved LEED Gold certification.
Recreational Partnership Opportunities
The school is constructed adjacent to the Athabasca Multiplex and Aquatic Centre, and across from Athabasca University. As a result, programmatic synergies are able to be capitalized with various town and county groups. Campus planning efforts unify the existing buildings on site and establish a community hub. Community members have access to gymnasium and multi-purpose community rooms within the school, and during school hours, students have access to recreational programming offered by the adjacent multiplex.