Magic City Acceptance Academy is a new charter school in Homewood, Alabama that provides an LGBTQ-inclusive and affirming learning environment for 400 students in grades 6-12.
Our team worked with the users, developer, general contractor, Magic City Acceptance Center, and Birmingham Aids Outreach to design an innovative, efficient school and a new tornado shelter/multi-purpose building in record time.
The renovation of this former office building included a full interior renovation, refreshing the exterior, and a new entry vestibule that provides a layer of security and a place for visitors to check in.
The waiting room wall and furniture continue the purple from the exterior and set the tone for the school’s colorful interior.
Upon entry, the open rainbow stair is the school’s central vertical circulation and a symbol of support for the LGBTQ community
A gradation of accent colors in the corridors matching the steps of the main stair add visual interest and provide wayfinding on each floor. Large windows looking into the classrooms add visibility and security.
Classrooms are open and flexible, allowing educators to set them up to suit their needs. Large windows flood the space with natural light that flows from the classrooms to the corridors.
MCAA’s mission is to facilitate a community in which all learners are empowered to embrace education.
In the open space between classrooms, the library provides a central location for students to read or study outside of classes.
The design includes semi-private and private nurse stations as well as gender-neutral, single-occupancy restrooms, a shower, a laundry room, and a sensory room.
Guided by MCAA’s mission and vision, this space is designed to be welcoming, flexible, and empowering.
