The Opus Group has completed a 31,000-square-foot addition and renovation at the Visitation School in Mendota Heights.
The first phase was completed in January 2013, and involved constructing a new 4,000-square-foot Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) building. Known as Opus Hall, the building will serve as a work and assembly space for the school's robotics program, as well as a site for engineering and math classes for upper school students, and computer programming classes for grade-school students.
The first phase also included an 1,800-square-foot expansion to the school's dining area and the addition of an interior courtyard.
Phase two construction began in June of last year, the day after the end of classes. This phase, called the Heart of the School, included 14,300-square-feet of new construction, including the addition of a third level and other renovations.
A new entryway and commons area was added, as well as a three-story atrium space, classrooms and breakout and study areas. Renovations included tech upgrades in the library and updated heating, cooling and water systems. This phase was completed in March 2014.
Craig Larson, vice president of Opus Design Build LLC, said, "by completing the project in two phases we allowed heavy traffic areas to bypass the construction, limiting disruptions to the educational environment."
Opus Design Build was the design-builder and Opus AE Group LLC served as the design architect and architect of record. NELSON provided interior design services.
Visitation School is an independent Catholic school for boys and girls in Montessori preschool through grade 6 and all-girls, college preparatory school in grades 7 to 12.
