Started in 1971 as a home school, Waring has grown to 150 students. Based on a rigorous academic program, the School had emphasized the arts and humanities, and wanted to expand its focus in the sciences. As part of a Master Plan commissioned in 1998, the new science building replaced small and outmoded facilities and includes laboratories, seminar rooms and a 50-person lecture hall, providing a science facility unequaled on the North Shore.
Retained as Owner’s Representative, Mr. St. John worked closely with the Building Committee throughout the planning, design and construction process. He managed a design process that provided a live tree as part of the structure and incorporated student stained glass and ceramics in permanent exhibitions. The organic nature of much of the detailing required a regular presence on site, and Mr. St. John was able to help the School successfully translate its culture into built form.
Mr. St. John oversaw incorporation of a number of green strategies, including the use of natural convective cooling, use of recycled materials and zero-VOC materials to optimize air quality, durable finishes, daylighting and lighting controls to reduce electrical use, and high-efficiency mechanical and electrical equipment.