The city’s first public high school in 20 years was designed to compete with private schools to attract gifted students. Jurors were impressed with the results, making comments such as, "It takes high school architecture to a completely new level; I was amazed when I realized this was a public institution; the interiors are exceptional." The constraints of the long, narrow site, bounded by residential streets, utilities, and the river, were turned to advantage with a linear plan of interconnecting forms. Interstitial spaces between the large volumes became light-filled gathering spots that encourage students to enjoy the unique setting. An auditorium and adjacent glazed lobby are sited to facilitate community use.