Westview High School and YMCA
Westview High School & YMCA is more than just a building—it’s a story of community, collaboration, and innovation. Nestled in the rolling hills of northwest Omaha, the school’s design, developed in partnership with BCDM Architects, takes cues from the natural landscape while reflecting the shared values of education and wellness.
What sets Westview apart is its seamless integration of a state-of-the-art high school and a full-service YMCA. This facility was designed with both students and community members in mind, creating an environment where learning, fitness, and connection happen side by side. By thoughtfully integrating educational spaces with communal areas, Westview High School & YMCA prioritizes security without compromising connectivity, setting a new standard for safe, community-centered design.
The collaboration between Westview High School and the YMCA presented a unique challenge: balancing public access with the need for security, all while fostering a welcoming environment for both students and the community.
Through early coordination between school leaders and YMCA representatives, the design ensured a smooth transition between school-only, YMCA-only and shared spaces while maintaining clear boundaries. With co-located entries and adaptable layouts, the building transitions smoothly between school and community use, inviting students and neighbors to engage, learn, and grow together.
The building is designed to support a range of learning styles and activities, creating a space that evolved with the growing needs of their students. Classroom and lab layouts prioritize adaptability, incorporating moveable walls, modular furniture, and collaborative spaces that encourage both collaborative and independent work. Centralized areas, like small group rooms and hallway collaboration zones, offer additional flexibility for impromptu discussion or focused learning.
Thoughtful planning creates an environment that maximizes utility and fosters connection – a place where students are empowered to thrive in spaces designed to grow and change with them.
