Changing by the day
Warren Hall finds a new life

During the day, workers on top of Warren reattach the old slate shingles, and they climb in and around the new dormers and openings that will eventually connect with the student-faculty center. At dusk, bright lights from inside Warren highlight the wall studs and

doorframes as a new interior takes shape. A recent tour for faculty and staff revealed treasures such as brick arches that were uncovered in the excavation, graceful old windows that were not sacrificed to the redesign and a bell tower that will be an exposed element in the top floor ceiling. The renovations of Warren Hall have been less celebrated than the wonders of the new student-faculty center, but when the building opens, we may all be surprised. We’ll find large, classrooms with plenty of natural light, high ceilings, a feel of the "old schoolhouse" on the first floor in the admission area, an ample and accessible bookstore, and deans’ offices configured together within easy reach of students. Dormers in the top floor attic have expanded the space toinclude three new classrooms, with views from the windows that will distract any student. The Office of admission on the first floor will celebrate the building’s history, and its connection with early Milton families whose lives and gifts to the School were associated with the China trade. Connections to the student-faculty center will link the past with a contemporary building, and provide spectacular interior views. As with any project that takes shape in the minds of the creators, the reality will surprise and delight those of us who have watched the process from the sidelines.

The renovations are slated to be completed in December, and moves to re-occupy the building will occur over winter break. On October 18 during Parents’ Weekend for Classes I – IV, parents, may tour the construction site that includes Warren and the student-faculty center on a first-come, first-served basis. You may want an early look at the future. If you can’t be there, check the architectural project section of the Web site for photos and details.