Albert W. Merrill Middle School Office Renovation

Studio MELEE

Recognitions: K-12 Projects 2022

Project Description

Originally designed and built in 1959, the Albert W. Merrill Middle School is a fine example of Mid-Century School Design which had been improved with tasteful additions and modernizations throughout the years. The architects were tasked with designing an office ADDITION at the front circle drive similar to another school in the district. Because of the positioning of the existing drive and drop off, an addition would significantly impact the building’s sense of arrival and clearly defined entry sequence. During programming the design team realized that the auditorium space was undersized and therefore not fully utilized as a performance venue but rather just a practice space. By reconfiguring existing music rooms and repurposing the existing office, the architects were able to incorporate the programmatic and security elements of the new office into the existing auditorium volume which was conveniently positioned along the existing covered entry. Punching a series of narrow window openings provided for visual connection between the office and any visitors and secure entry directly into the office area. An original slot between the canopy and the building that had been roofed over was opened up allowing for filtered southern light to enter the new office suite. Inside new mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems were installed below the slab and the sloped auditorium floor was leveled. The original scalloped asbestos plaster ceiling was abated and reconstructed with drywall over existing framing with new LED lighting. The new office space serves as a modern, secure and welcoming front door to a classic mid-century building. The design was intended to preserve and enhance the original aesthetics through a careful and delicate reimagining of a school's initial public impression.