Sparhawk Academy, a private, independent school in Millis, Massachusetts, has launched a significant new phase of campus development with the design of a new high school building, targeted enhancements to its historic Great Hall, and long-term planning for a future athletic and performance facility. The school is partnering with Gorman Richardson Lewis Architects (GRLA) to guide the work, aligning new development with Sparhawk’s educational mission and rural New England setting.
Central to the project is a new approximately 18,000-square-foot high school building located just north of the existing Great Hall. Designed to support Sparhawk Academy’s growing upper school program, the building will include flexible homeroom classrooms, science and seminar spaces, mentoring rooms, and administrative offices. Shared gathering areas are integrated throughout to encourage connection, dialogue, and community.
Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from traditional New England farm structures, incorporating barn-like forms, simple massing, and durable materials that feel both timeless and rooted in place.
In conjunction with the new high school, the project includes exterior improvements to the existing Great Hall. Planned updates feature wraparound porches, refreshed exterior cladding, and a new cupola, reinforcing the building’s role as a central campus gathering space while enhancing its visibility and presence. A new connecting structure will link the Great Hall and high school, establishing a welcoming main entrance from Orchard Street and improving circulation across campus.
As part of the broader campus planning effort, GRLA has also developed conceptual designs for a future athletic and performance building. Envisioned as a post-and-beam structure reminiscent of a New England barn, the proposed facility would accommodate a regulation basketball court, training and wrestling spaces, locker rooms, and performance areas. While planned as a future phase, the building is being incorporated into current site planning to support a cohesive and cost-effective long-term strategy.
The project team is working closely with Sparhawk Academy’s Board and faculty to address program needs, campus circulation, environmental considerations, and regulatory requirements. Construction of the new high school is anticipated to be phased around the academic calendar, with the goal of welcoming students into the space for the 2026–2027 school year.
Rendering of the side view of the campus