Scuola Vita Nuova (SVN) Charter School, a beacon of innovative education in Kansas City’s Pendleton Heights neighborhood, proudly announces its latest expansion project. Building upon a rich history of growth and community support since its founding in 1999 by the visionary Judge Shangler, SVN successfully transformed a nearly 12,000-square-foot former government office building into a dynamic new learning hub.

This exciting endeavor markes the next chapter in SVN’s inspiring journey, which has already seen the successful renovation of the former Church Rectory into the cherished Mary Glenn Donnelly Center in 2018 and the completion of the state-of-the-art Sherman Center STEAM addition in the summer of 2021. These previous expansions underscored SVN’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional learning environments for its students.

In a collaborative effort with SVN staff, parents, and students, Clockwork Architecture + Design crafted an inspiring vision for this latest project. The renovation breathed new life into an existing structure directly across the street from the main campus, creating an open, collaborative, and light-filled atmosphere designed to foster non-traditional learning.

The revitalized space featured a range of innovative facilities, including:
• Flexible Learning Environments: Adaptable spaces designed to encourage creativity and engagement.
• Culinary Teaching Kitchen: A hands-on space for students to explore culinary arts and nutrition.
• Wellness, Fitness and Movement Studio: Promoting physical well-being and offering opportunities for movement-based learning.
• Learning Studios that Encouraged Collaboration: Spaces intentionally designed to foster teamwork and peer interaction.
• Re-use of an Existing Building: Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and community revitalization.
• Open, Collaborative, Light-Filled, Exciting Learning Environment: Creating an inspiring and engaging atmosphere for all.
• Gender Neutral Restrooms: Ensuring an inclusive and welcoming environment for every student.
• Community and Parent Rooms: Dedicated spaces to foster greater parent and community involvement in the school.
• Safe, Secure, Resilient and Flexible Environment: Prioritizing the well-being and adaptability of the learning space.
• Fun Use of Color, Texture, Material and Exciting Environment

Creating a vibrant and stimulating atmosphere that sparked curiosity
This transformative project underscored SVN’s enduring dedication to providing a safe, nurturing, and cutting-edge educational experience for its students while also serving as a vital resource for the Pendleton Heights community. The “School of New Life” continues to live up to its name, consistently embracing growth and innovation to empower the next generation.

Design: Clockwork Architecture + Design
Photography: Jacob Angier