Newton, MA – Ebbrell Architecture + Design announced it completed the renovation of Clearway School in Newton, which opened to students in the fall.
After a years-long search for a new space, the school finally found its new home in a former parochial school. However, despite its history as a place of education, it lacked the necessary amenities and layout, particularly as it relates to modern teaching practices.
Clearway School
Jessica Cargile, NDICQ, LEED AP and interior designer with Ebbrell, said, “We stripped walls, re-lamped existing lighting fixtures, updated the HVAC to meet health specs, and revamped the teacher’s lounge, among a lot of other renovations.”
Among the major renovations completed was converting larger classrooms into smaller, intimate settings for learning while doubling classroom count. Antiquated chalk boards were removed to lighten and brighten to classrooms and hallways, and existing restrooms were refreshed. The Ebbrell team also created a clean color palette using the school’s signature blue to create a cohesive, calming, modern learning environment.
One of the biggest challenges, according to Cargile, was the existing flooring. “It was a mess, and we decided the best approach would be to go over it with something new,” she said. “We went with a Marmoleum floating floor in most areas and then used Flotex from Forbo in others. That worked out well because Flotex has the acoustics of carpet but the cleanliness of vinyl.”
Clearway School administrator, Mary Ryan, said Cargile’s knowledge of available materials in this supply chain-challenged world really made a difference. “Jess was great,” said Ryan. “She brought forward design ideas and helped me envision the different options.”
