Apollo High School Remodel Renderings Reveal New Learning Spaces

This blog post reviews the newly released architectural renderings for Apollo High School that District 742 presented to the school board on Oct. 1, 2025.

As an experienced architecture and engineering professional, I’ll break down the design intentions and functional improvements. I will also explain the planning process that could shape these early concepts into a modernized learning environment.

What the renderings communicate about the Apollo High School remodel

The conceptual images show a strong intention to modernize both the building’s appearance and its functionality.

Key themes include a warm, identifiable main entrance and increased natural daylight throughout the building. The renderings also highlight flexible areas for collaborative learning and community events.

These are not construction documents but visual ideas to guide discussion. The district shared the renderings to gather feedback and align stakeholders before moving to detailed design and budgeting.

Design features visible in the early concepts

The renderings use large glazing planes and open sightlines to make circulation intuitive. This approach also brings daylight into interior spaces.

The proposed common area stands out as a multifunctional hub for daily student interaction and formal gatherings.

Access is another important theme. A proposed activities entrance is designed to handle event traffic separately from daily student entry, improving safety and wayfinding during after-hours programs.

How these improvements align with contemporary educational needs

Schools today need to support collaboration, technology integration, and community engagement. The Apollo High School concepts reflect this by prioritizing adaptable spaces and better circulation.

Thoughtful use of natural light and open-plan commons can create healthier indoor environments. These features can positively affect student focus and staff retention.

From an engineering perspective, these designs should be paired with sustainable mechanical and envelope strategies to optimize energy use and maintain comfort.

Planning process and next steps for District 742

District 742 is at the beginning of a multi-step facilities planning process. The renderings are a starting point and will be refined through stakeholder input, cost estimating, and technical design development.

Community meetings and feedback opportunities will shape priorities. Construction documents will not be produced until after this input is gathered.

As the project advances, the design team must balance aesthetics with budget realities and code requirements. They will also consider lifecycle costs.

Early engagement with operations, maintenance, and educational leadership will be essential. This helps ensure long-term value for taxpayers and users.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Architect renderings give a sneak peek into Apollo High School remodel ideas