THE SCHOOLHOUSE / ROME OFFICE
Connection with nature , the incorporation of smart technology and a return to authenticity
This highly distinctive neighborhood landmark was originally built in 1894 to house the McDonogh # 30 School in New Orleans ’ Third Ward , a function it held for nearly half a century . The exuberant late Victorian design was at one point a lively confection of Italianate , Romanesque , Eastlake , and Neo- Classical elements and details . After decades of renovations by numerous tenants , these elements were removed from the façade and the interior underwent significant architectural changes . For nearly 20 years , the building sat vacant and blighted in various states of deterioration .
The Schoolhouse takes an additive approach toward adaptive re-use .
78 - www . refurbandrestore . co . uk
The design calls for the restoration of the building to its original 1894 exterior appearance and interior floor plan , including the classrooms , central corridors , and grand staircase . The historic structure is transformed into multi-family housing by placing a nuanced “ Box-for-Living ” in the center of each classroom . These Boxes contain the essential components for modern day living : a kitchen , bathroom , wardrobe , entertainment unit , laundry , mechanical closet , and lofted bonus room . By centering the Box in the old classrooms , the building ’ s character and historic detailing are left undisturbed and exposed , simultaneously creating rooms for an ideal-sized , 1-bedroom apartment . The Box cabinet panels are clad with desaturated white oak veneer while white porcelain and quartz carve surfaces to form the kitchen and bathroom . Full-height pocket doors can be tucked away or used to separate living areas . A stainless steel , traveling ladder tracks around the Box , providing access to the loft and upper storage cabinets . All services ( mechanical , electrical , and plumbing ) are routed within the walls of the Box , making efficient use of duct , pipe , and wire runs . The previously unused attic space features two 2-bedroom apartments under the high gabled roof . Discrete skylights are added to allow natural light into each of the rooms and provide city skyline views .