South Shore Sensation

The design concept of the school centers on a two-and-a-half story high, drum-shaped student commons area. Its circular shape, symbolizing community and inclusiveness, provides a unique space for connection and unification of students. High clerestory windows enable ample daylighting, while retractable glass doors link the space directly to the outdoor plaza. Located in south Seattle, South Shore K-8 School is a new structure replacing the existing South Shore building. Though generated as a new architectural form to meet program needs, the structure will still maintain its communal roots by remaining attached to the Rainier Beach Community Center and sharing a larger educational and community-use campus. BLRB’s emphasis on community collaboration enabled the District and a 30-member school design team to literally shape the campus design.