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WA School of the Deaf-4

Washington School for the Deaf

WA School of the Deaf-3
Washington-School-Deaf-Insidesource
Washington-School-Deaf-05

Overview

Washington School for the Deaf's groundbreaking facility serves as the nation's premier model for accessible, culturally responsive educational design. Our approach: support the mission of this innovative campus by centering Deaf culture.

Student and staff-led workshops helped shape every detail – from U-shaped configurations with 180-degree sightlines to optimize sign language instruction, to low-glare surfaces and acoustic flooring to reduce sensory strain. The result: inclusive spaces that amplify student potential, plus a welcoming environment for the entire community.

 

Project Details

Location
Vancouver, WA
Size
50,500 SF
Environments
Classrooms, gymnasium, workout room & PE facilities, common areas, library & media center, conference rooms, classrooms, administrative offices
Design Partners
Mithun Architects
Project Photos
Lara Swimmer
Awards
2025 Architizer A+ Awards, Primary and High Schools, Finalist

2025 Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA), National Award of Merit, Educational Facilities

2025 WoodWorks Wood in Architecture Award

2025 DBIA Northwest Region, OR Project Excellence Awards, Award of Excellence, Educational Facilities