May 5, 2023

RESTORATION WASHINGTON

Photo by Tanner Pham

The Mount Vernon High School Old Main Building was originally constructed in 1921.

Mount Vernon High School

Location: Mount Vernon

Contractor: Phampena

Architect: TCF Architecture

Team: Operative Plasterers’ and Cement Masons’ International Association; Evergreen Building Products; USG Building Systems

The Mount Vernon High School Old Main Building was originally constructed in 1921, and the modernization and restoration began early 2021.

This 100-year-old building is the perfect example of early 20th century masonry-and-plaster school construction. The objective was to restore the historic character and legacy of the building that has been serving thousands of students each year. The highlight of the building is the auditorium, but, over the last century, the impressive, coffered ceilings, crown molding, capitals, and medallions had severely deteriorated. The stairways and hallways also were in dire need of restoration.

Phampena took on the challenge of the extensive restoration of the school — including the repair of the original plaster walls, ceilings and ornamental plaster — on a tight schedule in order to be finished before its planned reopening. An important challenge was to retain the historical ornamental plaster features such as the unique Native American medallion without making it obvious to the observer that it had been repaired. The Phampena team worked diligently and innovatively to renew the historically rich pieces while retaining their legacy.

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