This project included a classroom and media center addition to Spirit Lake High School. The architecture of the new addition was heavily influenced by the existing facility. The addition also included creative detailing and use of materials in order to match the existing structure. The project was the second phase of a master planned project. We considered this desired future expansion in our design. Part of the future plans of the facility is for an auditorium to be built next to the current addition. VAA increased the foundation capacity along the adjoining wall and increased the snow load capacity for the expansion along that wall, due to the height of the auditorium.
VAA provided both civil and structural engineering for this addition. Our civil team worked closely with the mechanical engineers on an underground geothermal heating and cooling system under the parking lot. Spirit Lake High School was actively pursuing several ways to be self sufficient with their energy, including solar and wind turbine technology, and VAA was proud to be able to contribute to their efforts.
The site was on top of a fairly steep hill with significant drop-offs on two sides, which required proactive site planning. Because the site was more congested due to the constraints, the civil team initiated more intensive coordination with other disciplines. As is our practice, VAA engaged the architect and other disciplines in a collaborative structural systems selection process.
The structural system of the addition is conventional steel framing with steel deck, joists and beams. The walls are concrete masonry with spread footing foundations. This was a structurally and architecturally successful addition providing the children with the desired space.
The architectural design of the new addition included a series of long clerestory windows in the masonry walls. The required integrating small steel columns with the mullions to support the masonry structure above. The media center was an opportunity architecturally to create a secure yet warm and brightly lit space. Masonry walls were used for durability and economy. The construction schedule avoided winter masonry construction schedule improving project economy.
