2019 Best of Design Award for Interior — Institutional: Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School Great Hall Renovation

Designer: tonic design
Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

Making the most of a $150,000 federal grant and a construction time frame of six weeks during summer break, this renovation consists of subtle but powerful insertions and additions. The existing entry hall was poorly lit, dull, and lacked spaces for students to sit, collaborate, and congregate. Trophy cases holding relics long forgotten lined the perimeter of the hall, gathering dust and little attention. The principal had a vision for a great hall that would transform an image of athletic achievement into an image of collegiate collaboration. Now 1,500 students have a comfortable place to sit, work, and exchange ideas.

Owner: Wake County Public School System
Contractor: Varnedoe Construction

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