Built in 1927 and known for its academic rigor, Hamilton International Middle School infuses a global perspective into daily curriculum, highlighting foreign language, math and science in addition to traditional subjects. The facility stands as a testament to excellent education and as a landmark to the city of Seattle and the Wallingford community.

BLRB Architects believes in the power and importance of collaboration. We believe strongly that quality educational architecture can only be achieved when the project stakeholders are actively and meaningfully involved in the design process. Therefore, a 20-member team, comprised of teachers, staff, students and Wallingford community members, met with architects to determine and create a design that remodels and transforms the three-story original building into a modern facility.

The plan incorporates 6 small learning communities, each comprised of 3 classrooms, 1 science classroom and a special needs classroom clustered around a shared flex space. Serving all 6 learning communities equally, 6 foreign language classrooms, special education classrooms, applied tech lab and 2-D digital arts, and music education are incorporated into the building. In addition, a new gymnasium, gymnasium lobby and covered parking garage will be built as well as an outdoor play area over the garage with a pedestrian connection to Wallingford Park on the north.

The Student Commons, the social heart of the school, is located in the center of the building where group activities such as performances and collaboration takes place. This large three-story space will become a lofty place for students and staff to eat, perform and socialize throughout the day. The design of the new addition is envisioned to contrast with and be subordinate to the existing building.

Sustainable features of the building include maximizing use of daylighting, natural ventilation in all classrooms; use of 'green' building materials, occupancy controlled lighting and HVAC, water conservation, energy-efficient windows and other materials.

Grades 6-8
1,000 students
127,000 SF
Construction Estimate: $43,000,000
Estimated Completion: 2010