MSA Design partnered with the Barnesville Board of Education on a comprehensive District-wide construction program for this rural school District in Ohio’s Appalachian Region. It had been over 25 years since the District had invested significantly in their physical facilities, and our team was charged to reposition existing facilities to align with 21st century learning requirements.
The historic nature of the community and traditional design aesthetic priorities were realized in the design of the new Barnesville Middle School. A new central Clock Tower Cupola, reminiscent of the first schoolhouse in Barnesville is a key feature of the building, and serves as an iconic element on the surrounding rolling landscape. A new central multipurpose common off the entry serves as a gathering place for dining, assemblies, and performing arts events. An academic wing is strategically placed overlooking a pond and wetlands, with a panoramic view of the surrounding valley.
The extent of additions to the building included a new Central gathering atrium, and administrative hub. A new science wing was added to the rear of the building, along with a gymnasium extension to “right size” the court for OHSAA play.
Barnesville Elementary School was a conglomeration of buildings from the 1920’s, 1940’s, and 1970’s and was originally the combined K-12 campus for the District. The 1920’s portion of the building was demolished to provide outdoor play space and parking, and the remaining 1940’s and 1970’s areas were completely overhauled to serve the PK-4 population.
