Oyster Bay High School Performing + Fine Arts Addition

Designed in 2015, the project incorporated both the building improvements at the Oyster Bay High School building as well as the new addition on McCouns Lane in Oyster Bay, New York. The new construction represents an application of design principles that reflect both the “Art Deco” styling of the historic Oyster Bay High School (completed in 1929), as well as the needs of 21st century learning environments.

Set within a steep topography above street level, the addition features state-of-the-art spaces for the school’s Performing and Fine Arts curriculum, including a centrally located, open-floor, 2,900-sq.ft. Band Room, capable of seating 150. With the neighboring 100-seat Chorus Room, both music spaces were designed with support areas for music practice, storage and program administration. A 1,200-sq.ft. 3D Art Room is adjoined via an open, L-shaped lobby and a double-loaded corridor, leading directly to the existing High School.

Overlooking a semi-open courtyard between the original building and the new addition, (3) classrooms at the existing High School were “re-invented” for the purposes of visual art programs, such as 2D Arts, Digital Arts, and Computer Graphics, providing over 2,700-sq.ft. of high-tech, fine arts educational spaces.

Conceptually, the new addition and interior High School renovations were designed around the school’s outstanding academic programs and S.T.E.A.M. learning curriculum which emphasizes multi-disciplinary, team-based learning and is heavily rooted in a connection to its “Gold Coast” history and local heritage. Reflecting this unique focus, BBS designed learning spaces that feature large windows and interior earth tones, and provide generous amounts of natural lighting, and views of adjacent outdoor areas.

Based on its 21st century learning foundation, the interior design  aimed at providing learning spaces that “breath” flexibility and adaptability to the instruction delivery process. They were equipped with latest audio/visual technology and equipment, modern sound and recording capabilities (Band Room and Chorus Room), flexible furniture solutions, casework and cabinetry to support the school’s student-oriented education approach.

In a magical evening of music and community pride, Oyster Bay’s own legendary musician, Billy Joel, helped the school representatives cut the opening ribbon on the newly constructed Oyster Bay High School Performing & Fine Arts Addition on September 25, 2018.