Designed as an evolving teaching tool, PXU’s Bioscience High School creates an immersive environment for exploration, with the future of science and technology at its core.

The architecture supports a unique educational philosophy by responding to the environment, culture, and urban context. Fossils are cast into the large east- and west-facing concrete walls to tell the story of geological time and illustrate environmentally appropriate orientation for solar exposure in the Sonoran Desert. Interior finishes represent DNA strands and chromosomes, while signage mimics the style of the periodic table of elements.

Serving a diverse socio-economic student population, the building responds to a district program that emphasizes collaboration, team teaching, and independent learning. A town square concept complements flexible classroom and laboratory models designed to adapt to advancing technology, a rigorous curriculum, and a variety of teaching strategies. These spaces prepare students for mentoring opportunities and internships with Bio-Genomic Research Neighbors and the nearby TGen community.

The open environment promotes socialization and features a central focal point: a grand stair suspended from the roof structure by cables. Large glass overhead doors open to a desert courtyard, allowing special events to flow into the adjacent amphitheater. Every space is open, flexible, connected to the whole, and adaptable by its occupants.