This 200,000 SF facility dedicated to educational innovation provides a leading-edge, multi-generational learning hub for the Sandhills community. R2i2 combines areas for community use, a student innovation center, District offices, a conference center, and a branch library. As a joint-use institution, the building offers educational spaces throughout to encourage engagement and collaboration.
The exterior conveys an industrial, high-tech appearance expressing the state-of-the art technology and programs offered inside. The main entry opens to a large central spine that separates the more public areas from the more secure areas of the building. With a 36’ high dividing wall with a continuous clerestory, the space is flooded with natural light. Various openings in the wall visually connect the learning spaces and frame views of learning activities from one area of the building to another.
This 21st Century learning environment is designed with flexibility at its core to adapt to changing programs, evolving technologies, and future expansion. The R2i2 learning area anchors the building and offers advanced STEM and vocational programs to all the District’s high school students. Classrooms have garage door access to a large, open area for project-based student activities and access to outdoor learning areas, and an “incubator” space allows students an opportunity to interface with business partners and professionals to work on real-world business challenges.
The design incorporates many strategies for sustainability including a rooftop solar array, shading devices on the east and south façade, a solar tree and wind generator, an underground cistern, and a solar hot water thermal system. Additionally, the project includes a stand-alone “Next Energy Lab” with a solar farm.
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