Mark Patterson of Upland Architects is proud to have partnered with Pinnacle Classical Academy to bring their vision for a dynamic, future-focused educational environment to life. Located on a picturesque 54-acre site in Shelby, North Carolina, this new 63,000-square-foot facility serves grades 2 through 12 and was funded through a USDA loan. Designed to accommodate over 800 students, the school embodies the Academy’s commitment to academic excellence and classical education principles.

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The comprehensive program includes 32 classrooms, two media centers, two fully equipped science labs, a music room, a gymnasium, an office suite, and more—all thoughtfully organized to promote both academic focus and community connection. Complementing the academic facilities, the expansive site features a baseball field, soccer field, and football field, offering students diverse athletic and outdoor opportunities.

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Beyond the building, Upland coordinated extensive site planning services, including a full traffic impact analysis and infrastructure improvements at nearby intersections to ensure safe and efficient access. Sensitive to the site's natural environment, our team integrated existing wetlands into a nature walk and outdoor study area, transforming a potential site constraint into an educational asset.

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The architecture reflects a timeless, classical aesthetic that reinforces the Academy’s educational philosophy and identity. Through careful coordination with the Owner and an emphasis on efficient design strategies, the building construction was completed at a notably economical cost, demonstrating how smart planning and strong collaboration can achieve remarkable value.

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In addition to leading the architectural design and permitting efforts, Upland Architects developed a full campus master plan to guide Pinnacle Classical Academy’s future growth and expansion—ensuring the site remains a vibrant hub of learning for years to come.