The Hamilton Middle School kids have had spring break this week, but work continues apace at next year’s digs. We toured the school recently with on-site project manager Michael Romero to see how the two-year, $45-million renovation is progressing. This story is best told in pictures…
The renovation of Hamilton Middle School is scheduled to wrap up in June.
The plaster moldings and decorative plaster corbels at the school’s entry are among the few original interior details intact after the renovation.
A detail from the new entry floor.
The commons (cafeteria/auditorium) space has been opened up to create an atrium that allows for much more natural light. Around the perimeter are classrooms (10,000 square feet of classroom space has been added to the building).
The new stage area.
This is one of the old gyms (there were two–one for boys, one for girls). It will become two extensively soundproofed music rooms. The other former gym will be a large multipurpose room for music or fitness classes.
The south-facing classrooms get exceptional light and views. Romero told us that light, acoustic quality, and classroom air quality were three major focuses in the remodel.
Classrooms (including this science one) have been set up for good acoustics, but teachers will also have lapel microphones available so that all students can hear them well.
The new 15,000-square-foot gym was being painted during our visit. It will accommodate up to 1000 people for assemblies and will be available for community use during non-school hours.
Another view of the gym.
The lobby between the school and gym will provide public access to the gym.
The gym exterior.
Romero welcomes questions and comments via email (mbromero@heery.com) or phone (206.633.1000).
Looks amazing! I wish my son were going to go there!