Dana Hall School Upper School Classroom Building

CM&B led the transformation of Dana Hall School to deliver a renovation of the Upper School Classroom Building. The project reimagined the heart of the existing structure into 90,000-SF of flexible, modern classrooms while incorporating new glass-clad atria, a light-filled main lobby, and high-performance building systems. Designed with energy efficiency, comfort, and educational technology in mind, the updated building provides a dynamic learning environment, all while engaging students in the construction process from groundbreaking to completion.

Sector

Academic

Location

Wellesley, MA

Project Size

90,000-SF

Client

Dana Hall School

Industry Partners

Dario Designs, Inc

Years Completed

2023

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Students literally left their mark on the new Upper School Classroom Building—signing beams and donning hard hats—making the project part of Dana Hall’s history for generations to come.

Construction Complexities

Demolished interior while preserving the core structure and prepared the site for 90,000-SF of new classroom space.

Built new glass-clad atria at the north and south ends, integrating modern structural systems with the existing building.

Constructed a three-story light shaft through the main lobby, coordinating complex vertical framing and finish work.

Installed energy-efficient classrooms with advanced HVAC, air filtration, high-performance glazing, insulation, and thermal controls, all designed to meet LEED certification requirements.

Incorporated sustainable building strategies, including mechanical systems that convert heat, occupancy sensors, increased natural light, and low-carbon materials, while keeping the school fully operational and maintaining strict student safety protocols.

Engaged students in the process through beam signing ceremonies, hard hat experiences, and educational walk-throughs.

An Inside Look

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