Bayshore Building Comprehensive Renovation

k-12 Education

K-12 education

Tampa, FLorida

2020

Category

Client

Location

YeaR

Site

Located within the historic Bayshore Building at Academy of the Holy Names, the project transformed the upper three floors of a 1920s brick-clad teaching facility overlooking Hillsborough Bay. Although much of the original interior fabric had been lost over time, the structure retained its historic character and prominent waterfront presence.

Program Challenge

Reimagine outdated educational spaces to support contemporary teaching methods and evolving 21st-century learning environments. The project needed to introduce flexible instructional and collaborative spaces within the constraints of a historic structure while maintaining active school operations during construction.

Solution

Rowe Architects reorganized the upper floors around a series of expansive Learning Commons that span the width of the building from east to west, transforming formerly linear corridors into active social and academic hubs. Designed to support collaboration, informal gathering, and flexible learning, the commons establish a new organizational framework for the school while encouraging interaction among students and faculty.

A variety of breakout spaces, classroom sizes, and collaborative environments were integrated throughout each floor to accommodate evolving curricula and diverse teaching styles. Classrooms were equipped with contemporary instructional technology, while the broader program included science laboratories, administrative offices, teacher workrooms, conference spaces, a formal boardroom, and updated support facilities.

The renovation also emphasized daylight, openness, and visual connectivity. Existing ceilings were raised to align with the historic window heads, maximizing views toward the bay and increasing natural light throughout the building. Historic crown molding at the second floor was preserved and replicated elsewhere, while original skylights concealed above dropped ceilings were restored as focal elements within the new media center. Glazed classroom panels along the corridors reinforce transparency and visual connection throughout the learning environment.

Careful coordination between the design team and construction manager allowed the phased renovation to be completed over two summers without the need for temporary classrooms or portable facilities.

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