Diocese of Worcester Catholic High Schools

Holy Name & St. Peter-Marian High School Study and Renovations

Due to low enrollment, the Diocese of Worcester planned to combine Holy Name and St. Peter-Marian High Schools. Saam was engaged to help the Diocese evaluate which building complex would be most suitable for the combined school. Both schools had challenges with hazardous materials abatement, overdue upgrades to systems, wear and tear on finishes, and other issues common with aging facilities. Budget constraints did not allow for all of the desired renovations to be completed, so priorities were be set by the team at large. 

Saam developed comprehensive existing conditions reports for both schools, including architectural, structural, MEP, and code evaluations, photos of deficiencies, and recommendations on necessary repairs. Saam worked closely with the construction manager to develop budget pricing for each item. After the study phase, the Diocese decided to use the Holy Name campus for the combined school and it was renamed St. Paul High School. Saam then worked with the administration to develop the scope of the Phase 1 renovations, which were completed in time for students to return to school in the Fall of 2020. Phase 2 included window replacements, hazardous materials abatement, and accessibility upgrades. 

All Saints Academy Study and Renovation Design

The Diocese of Worcester and the Board of All Saints Academy planned to combine their upper and lower schools into one building, and Saam helped to evaluate the existing conditions of the building. The main school building at 48 Negus Street had challenges with accessibility, overdue upgrades to systems, and normal wear and tear. Budget constraints were a major factor, as was the creation of a new school identity, unifying the two previous student populations. 

Saam developed an existing conditions and renovation recommendations report for the school, including architectural and code evaluations, photos of deficiencies, and recommendations on necessary repairs. Once the scope was agreed upon, Saam developed a set of drawings outlining the work and worked closely with the construction manager to develop budget pricing. Saam also assisted the owner with layout options for their new science room, drawing on previous experience in elementary education classroom design. Additionally, Saam created a presentation and spoke on behalf of the school at a meeting of the Diocesan Building Commission. The project was completed after delays due to COVID-19.