Vintage Hall was constructed in 1912 as the first permanent building for St. Helena High School. In the 1970’s the building’s use for students was discontinued due to non-compliance with the California Field Act. Through the years, the building continued to deteriorate due to lack of maintenance. The design planning was a collaborative effort and the underlying design concept was to maintain and restore the historic integrity of the building while incorporating the necessary structural and safety improvements.
The renovation included the installation of a new steel braced-frame structure and concrete foundation. Great care was taken to successfully conceal the new steel structure so as not to compromise the historical character of the original building. The project included the complete renovation of the building interiors, new exterior windows matching the original wood windows, and a new slate roof. New functions such as a full kitchen and cafeteria, computer lab, student store, and student government conference room have also been added. The St. Helena Unified School District now occupies the 2nd floor of the building, which includes all of the district offices and a state-of-the-art Boardroom.
	Jurors like the sensitivity to the existing design and the great interpretation that enhances the existing facility. It’s a wonderful update to a great community asset. One juror said, “It’s a terrific transformation, and aesthetically pleasing and I appreciate the special detailing. They did a good job of capturing the essence of the original design and the interiors are particularly well done, capturing the original design and style.”