Building DPHS
Deseret Peak High School
From day one, Deseret Peak High School was designed not just for today, but for decades to come. There’s a common understanding within the design community that says great design doesn’t have to be expensive, and poor design isn’t always cheap. Thoughtful planning creates beauty, efficiency, and long-term value. With the name, mascot, and colors already chosen before architectural planning began, our team integrated purposeful and cost-effective elements throughout, prioritizing spaces that serve multiple functions while minimizing future expenses. From the beginning, our goal was to build a student-centered school that inspires learning and meets the needs of today and well into the future. Every decision was made with care, prioritizing academic opportunity while also planning for long-term sustainability and responsible use of public funds. Innovative and forward-thinking design and construction techniques were used throughout this school to create a beautiful and efficient building that this community can be proud of for years to come.
Stage
To support full theatrical productions, our stage features some of the tallest tilt-up concrete walls in the world. These walls not only saved around three months on construction time, but they are also extremely durable and economical with virtually no future paint, repair, or maintenance needs. From the site’s lowest point, the stage rises to house a full fly loft, making this space a professional setting for students.
Auditorium Ceiling
Look up! The angled ceiling panels resemble a bird in flight. More than just dynamic, the panels cover mechanical elements, enhance acoustics, and reflect our Golden Eagle identity. Because the name, mascot, and colors were known before design began, beautiful aesthetic features like this were incorporated with minimal additional cost, blending art and function seamlessly.
Site
Our site drops 60 feet from one end to the other—an initial challenge turned into an opportunity. This natural slope allowed the design of an entrance at the main level that puts you right at the second-floor level of the auditorium and track, connecting students and visitors to multiple parts of the school.
Athletic Tunnel
Just like a professional stadium, athletes enter the field through a tunnel under the bleachers, built into dramatic concrete walls. Located directly off the main building, this area includes locker rooms, offices, and instructional spaces—all serving both athletic and academic functions. It's an inspiring, efficient layout that combines purpose with school pride.
Running Track
The 200-meter track with a 40-yard sprint lane encircles the upper level of our gym spaces, offering daily use for students and athletes. This integrated design allows easy access during school or secure closure during events, serving practical and multipurpose needs. Hall of Fame displays and clerestory windows elevate the experience with inspiration and natural light.
The Nest
Perched at the heart of the school and seemingly floating above the central learning stair, The Nest is a flexible, modern space where students and staff can meet, collaborate, or work quietly. With abundant natural light and expansive views, it’s certain to be one of the most sought-after spaces in the building.
Deseret Peak View
As you walk to the academic wing, the hallway is perfectly aligned with a view of Deseret Peak in the distance. We’ve outlined its profile on the glass at the end of the corridor—an inspiring reminder to connect students with the incredible Utah landscape.
Academic Corridor Design
Ceiling soffits mimic the rolling form of Deseret Peak, whilst creating clever arches hiding the buildings mechanical systems. Strategic window placement and insulation help reduce utility costs and boost efficiency. The result? A hallway that is both functional and beautiful. And look for the subtle golden eagle on the east wall passed the last arch.
Teen Center
Partway through construction, our district chose to add a Teen Center—an inclusive space that supports students in their journey towards graduation and a brighter future. Located near the little theater with its own entrance, it offers a safe place to study, grab food, or prepare for the day ahead.
CTE Wing
Our CTE wing offers students hands-on experience in metal and wood shops, agricultural studies in the greenhouse, and early childhood education through a preschool lab and outdoor play space. Anchored by a shared collaborative hub, these spaces encourage real-world experience and cross-disciplinary innovation—preparing students for careers through thoughtful, practical design.
Learning Suites
Designed with both collaboration and safety in mind, every suite includes a secure entry and dedicated emergency stairwell. Inside, flexible learning areas and open spaces support group work, while classroom sizes vary to accommodate the specific needs of teachers. While a traditional high school operates at about a 70% classroom utilization rate, these flexible learning suites and dedicated teacher offices allow Deseret Peak to run at over a 90% utilization rate making an economical use of the space.
Entry Brass Inlay
As you approach Deseret Peak High School from the parking lot, you’ll see our signature steel monument at the entrance. And beneath your feet, cast into the polished concrete, is a brass inlay of the school logo—a symbol of pride that welcomes all who enter.
Front Canopy and Landscaping
More than a bold visual feature, the front canopy provides critical shade to the building’s south-facing side—reducing heat gain, lowering cooling costs, and protecting key entrances from Utah’s weather. This passive energy-saving design enhances both safety and efficiency. Across the campus, low-maintenance, water-wise landscaping adds beauty while conserving water—supporting long-term savings and environmental responsibility.
Hosting Suite and Stadium
Integrated into the main building, the hosting suite and press box provide multifunctional spaces used for academic, athletic, and community purposes. Overlooking our signature field, the stadium’s bold wing-shaped canopy offers fans shade and shelter. The efficient layout serves many roles while showcasing our pride.
The Perch
To the northwest, near the track, sits the field athletics pavilion—featuring concessions, restrooms, and storage for our baseball, softball, and soccer teams. Its butterfly roof, inspired by a golden eagle in flight, provides announcers and spectators with sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding playing fields and the driver's ed lot.
Student Courtyard and Corner Golden Eagle
Extending from the student commons and facing the lake, the courtyard offers shaded and sunny seating year-round. At the building’s tallest corner, a 70-foot golden eagle is embedded in the wall—its outline illuminated by efficient LED lighting on game nights and special events, visible for miles. This striking feature reflects school and community pride while showcasing cost-effective design. Energy-saving LED lighting is used throughout the campus, exceeding code requirements and enhancing safety and sustainability.
