Hyannis,MA–Sturgis Charter Public School in Hyannis is a new high school for 400 students enrolled in the highly successful ‘International Baccalaureate for All’ program. The school asked Studio G Architects to design a 52,000sf building on a six acre site using primarily modular construction in order to meet a very tight construction budget of $165/sf, and to shorten construction time to approximately nine months.
The resulting design called for 96 factory-built modules to compose a new permanent structure, complete 20 flexible classrooms, five science labs, administrative offices, library/resource center, collaborative work spaces, a multi-story amphitheater and much more. Studio G Architects approached the modular construction as an opportunity for innovation and integrated sustainability.
Working closely with Innovative Design and Building Service (IDBS), the team developed strategies to stretch the modular technology as much as possible, aiming to gain maximum headroom for teaching and learning spaces, while still allowing for safe transport of all pre-fabricated units.
As a result, several modules were built and shipped with open-tops to gain additional inches. Roof panels were shipped separately and assembled on site, creating classrooms with airy 8’9” ceiling heights. To break up the potential monotony of modular facades, Studio G Architects sheathed elevations in a colorful wave-like pattern reminiscent of the sea and sand of Cape Cod’s nearby shoreline.
The modular construction process also allowed for an expedited schedule, improved quality control measures and reduced waste. While modules were constructed in a regulated environment by IDBS in Liverpool, PA, foundation and landscape work occurred simultaneously on site, including the restoration of wetlands and ecological storm water management.
The design team watched eagerly as the finished modules arrived in Hyannis like a caravan of large gift-wrapped boxes. Once the units were delivered, they were fitted with cables and hoisted into place by cranes. General contractor, J.K. Scanlan Company, Inc., then assembled the units in a remarkably short period of only three weeks.
After several additional weeks of interior and exterior finishing, the completed school opened its doors to an enthusiastic group of students, staff and community members. During the ribbon cutting ceremony, the school’s superintendent stated that, “The team really created a place that not only promotes, but accomplishes a positive learning environment.”
Transparency, visibility and daylight were primary drivers of Studio G’s design, and students were quick to observe the effect. As one tenth grader attested, “The classrooms are so full of light, it’s actually enjoyable to be in there…and it’s easier to stay focused.”