Schenkel Shultz, a leading Central Florida architectural and interior design studio, announced the completion of Cross Prairie K-8 for the School District of Osceola County. Designed to meet the demands of rapid growth in the District, the new 152,525 sq.ft. school prioritizes high performance, energy efficiency and a compact footprint to optimize both functionality and space.  

Drawing inspiration from the intricacies of origami, the three-story building features overlapping brightly colored shapes that infuse the campus with energy and playfulness. Tilt-wall form liners establish rhythmic continuity, unifying the origami-inspired elements and amplifying the building’s dynamic presence. Inside, bold splashes of color and asymmetrical tiling thread through the hallways, creating visual intrigue, while guiding movement and enhancing wayfinding.

Forward-thinking design elements enhance both the educational program and the learning environment. Flex spaces throughout campus support individual exploration, small-group collaboration and lecture-style instruction, enhanced by mobile furniture that shifts effortlessly to meet the needs of each lesson. A dedicated maker space within the media center encourages hands-on discovery and project-based learning, fostering students’ creativity and confidence. To strengthen community connection, the media center, cafeteria and gymnasium are strategically placed along the perimeter of campus to ensure streamlined access for after-hours events and programs.

“The most impactful learning environments are those that spark curiosity, encourage creative exploration and foster connection,” said J. David Torbert, AIA, Partner at Schenkel Shultz. “Our vision was to design a space where academic rigor meets inspiration, inviting students to explore boldly and realize their potential.”