Rogers Partners has completed the redesign of the historic Morse Theater, preserving its Baronial charm while integrating modern functionality with a telescoping seating system and floating control room. Additionally, the expansion and renovation of Trinity School introduced a 60,000-square-foot addition, optimizing circulation and enhancing the campus’s beauty and cohesion by connecting its two historic buildings.
As part of a larger project, Rogers Partners has successfully re-designed the intimate Morse Theater, which features 128 seats. Located on the top level of a historic Landmark building originally built as a seminary, the theater is housed within the former rectory space. Antique oak trusses span the volume, maintaining the grand atmosphere of a Baronial hall.
To preserve the historic character of the room, the seating, control room, and sound/light lock were thoughtfully incorporated into a central structure that floats within the space, without touching the exterior walls. The innovative telescoping seating system seamlessly retracts below the control room, allowing everything to discreetly fold away when not in use. The project also introduced a new entrance, dressing rooms, shop, and restrooms, enhancing the theater’s functionality.
The expansion and renovation of the Trinity School were completed in alignment with the school’s strategic vision to "create a physical environment that improves the efficiency, cohesion, and beauty of the campus." The design strategy achieved its goals by reprogramming the campus, optimizing circulation, and increasing natural light through the addition of a 60,000-square-foot expansion between the school’s two historic buildings.
The Annex Link, now connecting the new addition to the Lower School and Annex buildings—both designated as Landmarks—serves multiple functions, including a new stair and horizontal connections that unite the campus. The completed renovations have consolidated key program spaces, fostering a sense of divisional identity, while maximizing the use of existing spaces across the campus.
