Spark43 Architects

South Christian High School

Year Completed

2019

Project Type

New Construction

Location

Byron Center, MI

Role

John Whitten: Lead Design Architect and Project Manager

Architect of Record

AMDG Architects

Agile Innovation, Community Building, Visible Mission and Beautiful Mess are the four guiding design principles of the new 9-12 South Christian High School. Nearly 20 years in the making, the new building is centrally located on the 140 SCHS Sports Park in Byron Center. State of the art classrooms provide flexibility and transparency while reinforcing an overwhelming sense of community.

At the heart of the building is a two and a half story common space complete with fully accessible Hellerup stair, and spaces for students to collaborate, socialize and learn. The industrial arts classroom is located on the front of the building in homage to the SCHS community’s strong work ethic and commitment to the building trades. Truly a community building, nearly every design engineer and sub-contractor that worked on the project has deep rooted connections to the school and community.

Project Highlights

  • 54 Learning Spaces
  • 5 Learning Commons
  • Teaching Gym
  • 1,800 seat competition gym.
  • Fully Accessible Hellerup Stair
  • Natural Light in every learning space
  • 1,100 seat worship auditorium
  • Wood and Metal Shops
  • Flexible classroom furniture