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2010 Exhibition of School Planning and Architecture. Everett High School Little Theater. Everett, WA Lee J. Brockway Award - Renovations DYKEMAN Architects. Everett High School Little Theater Renovation. Everett High School Little Theater Renovation. Community Environment.
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2010 Exhibition of School Planning and Architecture Everett High SchoolLittle Theater Everett, WA Lee J. Brockway Award - Renovations DYKEMAN Architects
Community Environment Originally constructed in 1924 as a church, the Little Theater building was acquired by the Everett School District as part of the Everett High School campus and housed the Drama Department as well as several classrooms. Through removal of overgrown landscaping and cleaning and restoration of the existing masonry and terra cotta, the spirit of this historic building was revived.
Community Environment The community is engaged through the presence of an integrated display case on the street side; people who once passed by without giving much notice now stop to admire this historic structure. In addition, the Little Theater is now available for community use as the school schedule allows.
Learning Environment The renovation of the Little Theater provided additional classroom space as well as an enhanced venue for the Drama program. Prior to the remodel, the basement level consisted of two large, inefficient classrooms, Drama storage space, and inadequate restrooms. Three new classrooms were oriented along an accessible central hallway, and each includes flexible classroom space with a computer area. The efficient layout resulted in a net add of (1) classroom. In addition, a teacher planning space was created, independent of the teaching spaces. New accessible restrooms were provided along this main circulation route, serving the classrooms as well as the Theater.
Learning Environment The renovation of the Theater space preserved not only the Drama program components, but enhanced a significant assembly space within the school – when not in use by the Drama program, the Theater is used for testing, lectures, presentations, etc. Positive results are already being seen; staff reports enrollment in the Drama program has doubled since the renovation. The renovation vastly improved the user comfort level within the learning environment as well – new efficient light fixtures were installed to supplement diffused natural light already provided to the classroom spaces, new HVAC systems resolved uneven temperature fluctuations and improved air flow, operable windows were installed, and moisture issues were eliminated.
Physical Environment There were those who would have bulldozed this inspiring building in favor of a new, modern facility; however the historic character of the building coupled with budgetary constraints proved to be on her side. In order to accommodate the extensive seismic and system upgrades necessary, the interior of the building was completely gutted. A seismic frame was erected within the existing masonry shell – essentially a building within a building – including within the existing bell tower, to accommodate a new elevator. This was a significant step towards increasing the life-safety of the structure. Further, internal ADA access was improved by eliminating the multiple varied levels throughout.
Physical Environment The interior of the Theater space itself was rotated 90 degrees within the building and raised seating tiers ascend above the floor plane along a curved wall, providing a centrally focused sensory experience and resulting in improved sight lines as well as circulation. A Control Room and Band Mezzanine oversee activity from the upper level. The result is an intimate and engaging space, with seating for 146 people. As a bonus, an additional space was created adjacent to the Theater, consisting of a “green” room/queuing space which doubles as a classroom, and contains an accessible restroom.
Physical Environment Throughout construction, care was taken to maintain historic features – masonry was preserved, stained glass windows were protected, and existing decorative trusses and corbels were carefully disassembled, stored during construction, and reinstalled. Externally, reorientation of the main lower level classroom entry and ADA accessible ramp provide a clear entrance, focused inward toward the campus. In addition, an area for ticket sales was created off of the raised exterior plaza, where visitors are guided into the welcoming lobby space adjacent to the Theater. Sustainable practices were employed through re-use of this unique structure, as well as the incorporation of high efficiency mechanical and electrical systems, energy reduction, water conservation, and durable materials. Today, the Little Theater has a renewed sense of dignity and stands proudly amongst its peers on this historic campus.
Planning Process Both District and school staff members were significantly involved throughout the design and construction phases. Educational Specifications were created based on input from all stakeholders, and were referred to frequently throughout the design process. An enhanced learning environment, improved building image, safety, and security were primary goals of the planning process. The planning began in November 2007, and the Little Theater reopened its doors to students for the first day of school in September 2009.
