Tilton School Academic Building

Project Scope:  To design a new 38,000 SF academic building connected to the existing academic and administration building in a way that unifies the two buildings.

Site Description:  A steeply sloped hill on the southeast corner of the main green space on campus. The building was set into the hillside to level the green space and create a new academic quadrangle.

Program:  Four science labs and prep rooms, a 114-seat theater-style classroom, Learning Center, language labs, eight classrooms, student lounges, interdepartmental faculty offices, and administrative offices.

Design Challenge:  To design a building that would change the way the School community thought about themselves. Founded in 1845, they had always seen themselves as a “second tier” independent school, and wanted the new building to reflect and symbolize the many internal changes they had been making to elevate the school into the first tier. It also had to blend the traditional elements of the school with their desire to be modern and innovative.

Design Solution:  The building was designed to integrate these two aspects of the school: tradition and innovation. Connected to the existing 1930’s building, it mirrors its materials and proportions. Where the two buildings intersect, a three-story atrium joins them around a common space and shared purpose. Overlooking the new terrace and quadrangle, the atrium brings together the student body, the academic disciplines, and the administration in a unified school community and building complex.

Classrooms and programs are organized to foster horizontal and vertical integration. Departments that worked closely together are located next to one another, sharing classrooms, workspaces, and offices. Students from all four classes are encouraged to collaborate, sharing study rooms, lounges and common spaces. The spaces between the classrooms become as important as the classrooms themselves, encouraging interactions and enhancing the value of the community experience.

Materials:  Referencing the traditional academic and mill buildings of northern New England, the building is built of simple, timeless materials: brick, granite, oak, copper, and glass. Balancing tradition with innovation, the new building mirrors the older building’s patterns and proportions, while creating a modern sense of openness and possibility with the glass atrium space and clerestory.

Sustainable Design:  High performance envelope (exterior barrier insulation), solar shading devices on south facing windows, ultra low-flow plumbing fixtures, high performance lighting/mechanical controls and sensors, and outstanding day-lighting in all teaching spaces. High recycled content, locally sourced materials, no VOC coatings, and durable finishes.