End of the Year Project Recap of 2024
Posted By Laura Scheele – Dec 31 | 2024
As we close out 2024, we take pride in reflecting on the projects and milestones we’ve accomplished alongside our remarkable clients. From reimagining library spaces to designing innovative educational facilities, this year has been one of growth and transformation. Our work has spanned school projects of all sizes, crafting environments that inspire learning and enrich life for generations in those communities.
Each project, whether a large-scale facility or a smaller, more intimate community space, reflects our unwavering commitment to creating places that bring people together and enhance the users experience. None of this would be possible without the passion and collaboration of our clients, whose trust drives us to deliver our very best.
Below are some highlighted projects completed in 2024.
Polk County Library Renovation - Bolivar MO
Sapp Design transformed the library into a modern design with light-filled entryway and functional enhancements. The 12,200-square-foot space offers vibrant children’s areas, a cozy hearth with comfortable seating, and flexible programming zones that feature public meeting and study rooms, a spacious community room, and a serene outdoor patio.
Governor Michael L. Parson’s participation in the grand opening highlighted the library’s deep community roots as he reflected on his ties to the region during a special book signing.
East Independence Branch Library - Independence MO
The New Mid-Continent Public Library – East Independence Branch Library officially opened in 2024. The 12,770 sf library blends modern design with its natural surroundings. The library features a double-height glass facade that welcomes visitors with warmth, while a louvered North wall balances light and shadow for depth and energy efficiency. Inside, a central circulation spine leads patrons through the space, connecting them to various program areas and offering stunning views of the surrounding woodland.
Riverside Branch Library - Riverside MO
The Riverside Branch Library, 25,500 sf, seamlessly integrates with its park-like surroundings, offering a unique experience that begins as visitors approach the site. Surrounded by trees and featuring a trellis that creates an inviting, shaded walkway, the library feels like an extension of the park. Inside, the design emphasizes openness, with a large north glass wall bringing in natural light and offering park views, while flowing ceiling baffles echo the trellis pattern. The library provides diverse public spaces, including open stacks, a children’s collection, study and collaboration rooms, a community room, and an outdoor patio.
"The Rush" Aquatic Park - Republic MO
The Rush expansion prioritizes community desires, featuring a 575-foot lazy river as its centerpiece. To address the site’s significant grade changes, terraces were thoughtfully integrated into the hillside, creating rental areas, patios, and lounge spaces that offer stunning views of the water, island, and new water slides. A new concessions/pool house with a pergola provides additional seating, while the island itself becomes a destination with cabanas, water features, and green spaces. Designed as a vibrant, family-friendly destination, the expansion enhances the park’s appeal as a regional attraction.
Jordan Valley Community Health Center Benton - Springfield MO
The Jordan Valley Community Health Center at Benton is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to training future medical and dental assistants through innovative, technology-driven education. It features a simulation lab replicating real medical and dental settings, interactive e-learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and collaborative learning spaces to foster teamwork and communication. This cutting-edge center reflects Jordan Valley’s commitment to innovation, advancing healthcare education, and empowering the next generation of professionals in Southwest Missouri.
Lebanon Early Childhood center - Lebanon MO
The project transformed a 100,000-square-foot 1980s mall into a collaborative hub meeting community and student health and educational needs. By reconfiguring the building layout, the center now houses an Early Childhood Center, high school career programs, a women and children’s health clinic, tech labs, and culinary arts center. Strategic updates include modernized entrances, super-graphics for visibility, and skylights to introduce natural daylight into core spaces. The preschool infill features many built in storage, interactive walls, and flexible learning spaces.
We are deeply grateful for the dedication and collaboration that bring each of our projects to life. It’s an honor to work alongside such incredible clients, a supportive community, and our passionate team. As we look ahead to the coming year, we are filled with excitement for the opportunities to create more meaningful spaces together and extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who makes this journey possible.
If you would like to learn more about working together, please contact us and we can see if we’re a good fit.