St. James Intermediate School

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Firm

SFL+A Architects

Client

Horry County Public Schools

Area

170,784 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$47,742,333

Completion Date

08/2017

Associated firms: Firstfloor Energy Positive (Design-Builder), SfL+a Architects (Architect of Record), Stantec Architecture (Educational Planning/Interiors), Mozingo Wallace (Exterior Architect) Interior design firm: Stantec Architecture

St. James Intermediate School was one of four middle school prototype facilities completed as part of a design-build. The planning process included conversations about organizational strategies that nurture freedom and responsibility among students within a safe, controlled setting.
The resulting design incorporates flexibility and freedom with greater visibility, access to technology, occupant comfort and choice. Of principal importance was creating a learning environment that transcends a collection of classrooms. The learning commons fosters communal interaction and promotes project-based approaches to spark lifelong learning habits. Connecting the learning commons and classrooms is a collection of collaboration areas—some tech-rich, others more hands-on; some highly structured, others meant to change on the fly.
Placing resource areas, special education spaces, and other support spaces within the learning commons and collaboration areas enables all learners to participate in the creation of their school culture and commits staff to model creative and collaborative approaches. The design also features open dining, a gymnasium, and opportunities for outdoor learning.