BIA Day School and Old Repository
Project Team
Location:
SRP-MIC, AZ
Completed:
2025
Size:
7.27 Acres, 25,000sf - 2 buildings
Cost:
$23.7M
Details:
This project entails the complete renovation and reconstruction of a historic building within the SRP-MIC Cultural Campus, originally built in 1935 by Community-member Phoenix Indian School students. For over 70 years, this building served as a Day School for the community until its closure in 2007. The goal of the project is to preserve the walls, which hold significant sentimental and historical value to the community, while transforming the space into a modern cultural school with updated amenities. The vision is to create a vibrant community hub that balances historical charm with contemporary functionality.
The historic walls of the building will be retained as the exterior façade and will be meticulously restored using the original blocks that have been salvaged and processed by SRP-MIC Community members. To accommodate the needs of a modern educational space, the building will receive new structural foundations, metal stud walls, and wood trusses. The renovation will include the installation of essential utilities, infrastructure, and finishes, ensuring the building meets the needs of classrooms, administrative offices, art studios, a dining hall with an associated kitchen, and an auditorium with a custom stage and custom wood trusses. The finishes have been carefully chosen to preserve the building's historical integrity while ensuring it remains functional for contemporary use.
In addition to the indoor spaces, the project will create outdoor community gathering areas such as open-air pavilions, ramadas, courtyards, and a ceremonial space, offering venues for cultural activities and community events. A 500-square-foot restroom building will also be constructed to support the enhanced functions of the facility.
Adjacent to the main building, a smaller structure previously known as the SRP-MIC Old Repository will be completely remodeled. Modern materials will be used to restore this building, reviving its original look and feel while preparing it for new uses within the community. This renovation project seeks to honor the historical significance of the buildings while providing a dynamic, modern space for future generations.