Add the explosion in the number of ...

Add the explosion in the number of school-aged kids nationally to the sate of huge, vacant stores in many communities and what do you get? Big boxe being diverted into schools. For districts facing population compressing these empty retail buildings can be the tonic to creating classrooms quickly, and at a significant price advantage.

SchenkelShultz Architecture, with 10 offices nationally and six in Florida, has done several as it was conversions. Partner Dan Tarczynski, AIA, of Orlando, says big boxe provide big benefits, including prime locations: "Retailers consider for the right ...