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One of the oldest secondary schools in the United States, Phillips Exeter Academy is heavily built upon tradition; but has built an even stronger reputation upon innovation, not only in its educational practices. In Fall 2016, the Class of 1959 Music Center Addition installed a massive expansion to the academy’s Forrestal-Bowld Music Center. This expansion included the Bowld Recital Studio.

Contexture is proud to have helped bring this innovative space to light. Contexture worked closely with Consigli Construction, who served as general contractor on the project and ensured the space was acoustically sound. William Rawn Associates was the architect on the 4,000 square foot space. Intended as an instrumental recital room, it can hold up to 300 audience members. Contexture installed approximately 15 manual shades and 17 motorized shades from MechoShade Systems. Specifically, the motorized shades located in the new Recital Studio are Mecho’s Monumental specialty shades. Standing roughly 45 feet tall, this adaptive shading system is ideal for effective shading in areas with large windows, making it the perfect fit for the Bowld. The expansion project also included a music and media technology center, practice rooms, and facilities, totaling roughly 12,000 square feet in all. 

In addition to shade installation, Contexture also supplied several miscellaneous specialties for this large expansion, including visual display, toilet partitions & accessories, wall protection, lockers, and acoustical drapes. After partnering with Contexture, Phillips Exeter Academy now has a beautiful, acoustically sound space in which to bring more opportunities to Exeter’s growing music program and the surrounding community.

Photo by Bruce T. Martin

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