Sherman Carter Barnhart re-envisions University of Kentucky’s White Hall Classroom Building
University of Kentucky engages Sherman Carter Barnhart Architects with SmithGroup to transform White Hall Classroom Building, an iconic campus site.
Kentucky’s newest 21st Century Education & Energy School, Lone Oak Middle.
Lone Oak Middle School exemplifies next-generation learning through its adaptable learning environment and state-of-the-art performing arts center. The school features eight flexible labs for science, computer, health, and business curricula, all equipped with 3D printing and digital animation facilities. These labs foster hands-on learning and critical thinking, while operable walls enable neighboring classrooms to connect, promoting multi-functional learning and collaborative teaching.
The Media Hub, located at the school’s core, provides various dynamic seating zones for presentations, research, quiet reading, 3D printing, and media production. The arts-focused curriculum is further supported by a 9,100 square-foot performing arts center, which seats 662 and includes a balcony with retractable bleacher seating. This allows the space to double as a flexible learning area. The performing arts center delivers an authentic theater experience complete with green rooms, spaces for band and choir, and a black box stage for easy set productions. Cutting-edge stage lighting enhances the quality of performances.
The gymnasium, with seating for 980 spectators and full-sized audio-visual screens, serves as a versatile space for both the school and the wider community. The synthetic turf football/soccer field and athletic complex function as the district-wide athletic facility for all middle schools.
Lone Oak Middle School boasts extensive technology integration, providing device-ready plug-in capabilities at every turn. Students, teachers, and parents can effortlessly charge their devices and access wireless internet.
Designed as a high-performance building, Lone Oak is easy to maintain and cost-effective to operate. Mechanical mezzanines and equipment closets enhance maintenance efficiency, minimize disruption, and reduce long-term maintenance costs. Active daylighting throughout the facility ensures natural lighting and decreased energy consumption. The gymnasium features glazing above the sports court, while the Media Hub benefits from double-height glazing, creating a more enjoyable learning experience.
University of Kentucky engages Sherman Carter Barnhart Architects with SmithGroup to transform White Hall Classroom Building, an iconic campus site.
As Sherman Carter Barnhart Architects proudly celebrates its one-year anniversary in our new building, we reflect on a transformative journey marked by innovation, collaboration,