MATTOCK SCHOOL OF MUSIC

Architecture and Interiors

CLIENT: David Mattock

LOCATION: Philadelphia, PA

STATUS: Complete

YEAR: 2017-2018

Woodcock Design, Inc. worked with the Owner to assess a former residential building for suitability as an arts school. The basement of the house allowed water inside and the underside of the first-floor structure was inadequate for the new use. Yet, the house had potential as a school due to its location in Kennett Square and the interior layout of the rooms. Based on the assessment of existing conditions the owner decided to proceed, even though the structure suffered from structural defects, lack of insulation, and leaky windows.

The renovated structure includes basement cheek walls and a new slab allowing use of the below-grade space as an instrument repair lab. The first and second floors support four classrooms, and the attic houses a recording space. The renovation has enabled the school to expand to 100 students and attract new faculty, thereby diversifying artistic offerings and expanding the reach of the school. Cooke Brown Engineering provided the structural engineering for this project which while small, was intricate in design.