Long Island Mansion Repurposed as Charter School

By Eric Althoff

CALVERTON, N.Y.—Thanks to the joint efforts of architects Memasi and BBS and general contractor Stalco, a single-family home constructed in 1916 is being renovated to serve as a more modern home for the Riverhead Charter School.

The $14-million renovation required reimagining the 50,000-square-foot K-8 school so that it can better serve its complement of 500 students. The plan also called for fashioning a 22,700-square-foot, two-story classroom featuring 18 classrooms as well as a 5,740-square-foot auditorium, music room, administration wing, library and kitchen facilities. All of this had to be undertaken while being careful to respect the building’s century-old architectural motif.

Architectural flourishes include height-adjustable workspaces, large windows to allow in as much natural lighting as possible and glass storefront systems to maintain an open-air feel.

On the inside, the firms had to refurbish the building’s HVAC system and reconfigure lighting throughout the school.

Modular classroom buildings have been maintained on the school’s campus during the construction process, which also necessitates surfacing a new parking lot and drop-off area. All of this has to be accomplished under a tight schedule and while classes remain in session.