Bishop Feehan High School, Renovation/Conversion of Mercy Hall Convent

Attleboro, Massachusetts

Firm

Dore + Whittier

Client

Fall River Diocese

Area

26,000 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$4,471,995

Completion Date

08/2009

The architect was hired by Bishop Feehan High School to conduct a comprehensive campus master plan study of its facilities. The study determined that the campus had an insufficient number of classroom and faculty spaces, and an outdated library/media center. As a result, a 1961 four-story former convent building was converted and enlarged into modern high school program space.

The 50-year-old building presented planning challenges because of its concrete-framed superstructure and extremely low ceiling heights. The mechanical and electrical systems were designed carefully to fit around the restrictive ceilings by moving large volumes of air vertically through strategically placed duct chases, then horizontally with smaller branches to maximize vertical space in the existing building and addition.

The design team carefully integrated the modern building systems, new and renovated classrooms, and office spaces into the existing building. The project used high-quality, proven materials that were consistent with the character of the Catholic school. The addition is a high-performance, glass-enclosed library and classroom wing that highlights the school’s vision toward the future.

Additional Information

Cost per Sq Ft

$149.07

Featured in

2010 Educational Interiors

Interior category

Interior Renovation

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Product suppliers specified

Carpet by Patcraft

Ceramic Tile by Dal-Tile

Door Hardware by Best Access Systems

Door Hardware by Stanley

Door Hardware by LCN Closers

Doors by Lambton Doors

Paint/Wallcoverings by Sherwin-Williams

Plumbing by Zurn

Roofing by Firestone Building Products

Lighting & Accessories by Kirlin

Emergency Lighting by Cooper Lighting

Fire/Life-Safety Systems by Notifier

Washroom Accessories by Bobrick

Washroom Fixtures by Elkay

Washroom Fixtures by Zurn

Clocks/Time Management by American Time & Signal Company

HVAC Units by Trane

HVAC Units by Greenheck

HVAC Control Devices by Andover Controls

Fire/Life-Safety Systems by

Flooring by Armstrong World Industries

Ceilings by Armstrong World Industries

Insulation by Dow

Movable Partitions/Walls by Hufcor

Lighting & Accessories by Cooper Lighting

Lighting & Accessories by Elliptipar

Locks by Corbin Russwin

Locks by ASSA ABLOY

Drinking Fountains by Halsey Taylor

Washroom/Shower Partitions by Bobrick

Communications Systems by Atlas Sound

Whiteboards / Markerboards / Chalkboards by Claridge

Messageboards by Claridge

Signage by Best Sign Systems