K-12 Public Schools

Putnam High School

Putnam, CT

After completing a comprehensive Facilities Master Plan study for Putnam High School in 2011, DRA was selected to complete the design of an addition and major renova­tions to the facility. Our initial work included preliminary programming meetings with each department as well as an extensive existing condition analysis to develop sound existing base plans. From the information received in the programming meetings, we developed space layouts for the various program areas within the building.

The design includes a new 8,000 square foot gymnasium with bleacher seating for approximately 500. A new lobby acts as a bus drop-off entrance at the south side of the building. The existing main entrance on the north side serves the parent drop-off area.

Many spaces have been reconfigured as part of this “renovate as new” project. The existing gymnasium was converted into locker room space for the new gymnasium, as well as a new black box theater. The existing music room was relocated next to the black box theater in a high bay space. The existing auditorium and music areas became the new home to the District’s BOE offices and a new medical assisting area.

Four new science labs are included in the design as well as renovated core academic classrooms with two shared break-out spaces for individual and group student work. The media center was fully renovated with access to a new computer lab and project laboratory. Completed in 2017.