The Old Towne Orange project would upgrade eight classrooms and add accessibility improvements to a contributing 1929 school building.
St. John’s Lutheran Church of Orange is seeking city approval for a substantial interior renovation of its historic school building at 515 E. Almond Avenue.
The proposal goes before the Orange Design Review Committee tonight because the 1929 building is a contributing property within the Old Towne Historic District.
Library and classroom improvements
Plans call for a 2,848-square-foot second-story mezzanine that would contain a new library. An attached 656-square-foot terrace would serve as an outdoor reading room.
The first floor would be remodeled to provide eight upgraded classrooms, a 583-square-foot multipurpose area, new restrooms, an elevator and a gallery.
The project would also remove existing skylights and modify the roof to accommodate the mezzanine. The building’s total height would increase by approximately two feet and eight inches, reaching 31 feet.
Balancing education and preservation
Because the school is part of a recognized historic district, the committee must consider whether the proposed changes preserve the building’s architectural character while allowing the campus to meet contemporary educational and accessibility needs.
City staff recommends approval of Design Review No. 25-0138.
The project represents an intersection of faith, education and historic stewardship. St. John’s is not proposing to demolish the historic school; the renovations are intended to adapt the existing building for continued use.
Public review tonight
The Design Review Committee meets at 5:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber at 300 E. Chapman Avenue.
The committee’s agenda describes the application as an interior remodel, mezzanine and terrace addition and roof renovation. Final conditions may address building materials, architectural details and compatibility with the surrounding historic district.
Residents can review the official project record and supporting plans before the meeting.
