The North Charleston Elementary School replaced an old school building which had occupied the same site for over eighty years. Many city residents were initially opposed to the idea of constructing a new building because the old one had been associated with fond memories. However, the original building could not be saved due to structural problems. Recognizing the community’s apprehension about building a new school, the project team looked for ways to find a middle ground.

A decision was made to deconstruct memorable components of the original school and incorporate them into the new one. For example, brick reclaimed from the old structure was incorporated into much of the new building’s exterior façade and deck area.  Also, deconstructed heart pine beams were remilled and used in millwork throughout the new school’s library. The first LEED certified school in South Carolina, North Charleston Elementary School is a state of the art facility that combines meaningful remnants of a community’s past with a high performing learning environment for the community’s future generations.

Reclaimed Materials (by application): Concrete/Masonry, Furnishings

Key Info
Location: North Charleston, SC
Date of Completion: 2005
Architect: McKellar & Associates
Client: North Charleston Schools
Contractor: Trident Construction Co.

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School Construction News Article