HIGH SCHOOL Auditorium RENOVATION.
Sherburne-Earlville Central School District
“We would like to create a space that is both modern and timeless” stated a stakeholder for Sherburne-Earlville Central School District, during one of the stakeholder meetings leading up to the design of the auditorium.
One of the most exciting scope areas from Sherburne Earlville’s most recent capital project was the renovation of their main High School / Middle School auditorium. The space was original to the building that was constructed in the late 1960’s. Existing finishes and adjacency to a mechanical space made the auditorium a challenge to use as a performing arts space. The goal of the renovation was to update the space and give the district all of the modern amenities that a performing arts space needs, as well as giving the space a connection with the rest of the District. Using the school’s new mascot, the Timberwolf, the design team was able to develop a theme behind the auditorium and other spaces to be renovated and develop a cohesive design language. Using the cave or den as a metaphor for the auditorium allows for a place for the students to express themselves in front of their pack. The use of natural wood finishes and a darker ceiling brought a scale to the space that makes it both inviting and grounded, while also maintaining elements inspired by a wolf’s den.
A brand-new catwalk system was installed closer to the stage, allowing for better control of the new state-of-the-art lighting system and integrated sound system. Acoustic upgrades mitigated the sound issues the district was experiencing from the adjacent mechanical room, leading to a better experience for both the audience and performers. Brand new seating and an improved layout allowed for an expansion of seats as well as a variety of seating types to accommodate all guests to enjoy the space for years to come.
