The renovation of High Mountain Hall in Camden, Maine, is a shining example of adaptive reuse, with Bay Chamber Concerts and Music School’s transformation of the mid-19th-century hall driving a 75% increase in student enrollment since its completion in June 2024. The redesign earned a 2025 Maine Preservation Honor Award for the project architect, Barba + Wheelock Architects in Portland, and was made possible by a capital campaign that raised $8 million from over 150 donors. Key Points:
• The hall was originally built as a meetinghouse and church in 1848. • The building underwent a renovation in 2007 into professional offices and an events hall. • The design team had to overcome a significant challenge in sound isolation and acoustics. • The project was coordinated by a mostly local team of experts.

High Mountain Hall, one of Camden’s oldest community buildings, has a rich history dating back to 1848. Founded in 1960, Bay Chamber Concerts and Music School purchased the property in 2022 to establish its first permanent home. The 6,500-square-foot structure was initially used as a meetinghouse and church, and later renovated in 2007 into professional offices and an events hall.

Challenges and Solutions

The design team, led by Barba + Wheelock with Rockport-based Tamarack Builders, encountered several challenges during the renovation process. One of the most significant issues was the discovery of a stream of water running through the crawl space, which had caused the floor structure to rot, requiring extensive replacement of the framing.

• • The floor structure had to be replaced due to extensive water damage.
• • Rear storage additions were deemed unsalvageable.

The team worked diligently to find solutions to these challenges. One notable example is the creation of a 150-seat concert hall, 12 classrooms, a recording studio, and office space. Barba + Wheelock, led by Cynthia Wheelock and Nancy Barba, created a design that preserved the structure’s form and architectural details while accommodating Bay Chamber’s need for expanded programming space in a modern addition tucked behind the original building.

Acoustic Design and Sound Isolation

The most interesting design challenge had to do with sound isolation and acoustics between the studios. According to Barba, the strategy involved creating each wall using three layers of sheetrock, with space in-between, to create a sound barrier between the studios. The team also used doors with gaskets to prevent sound from leaking into the hallways.

“There were 900 sheets of sheetrock in that little building,” Barba said. “Doors with gaskets help prevent sound from leaking into the hallways. It’s so serene when you go there now.”

Massachusetts-based Acentech advised on acoustical design, and the local team was augmented with expertise in acoustical engineering, structural, mechanical, electrical, lighting design, and interior design.

Community Engagement and Local Participation

The project was coordinated by a mostly local team of experts, with Tim Morrison, a project architect with Barba + Wheelock, leading the effort. The team included landscape designer, civil engineer, and construction manager, as well as smaller, local subcontractors. Barba + Wheelock extended the project schedule to enable the participation of these local subcontractors.

“Community engagement is built into this new space,” said Barba. “Tamarack Builders extended the project schedule to enable the participation of smaller, local subcontractors. This approach not only ensured the success of the project but also fostered a sense of community among the local residents.”

Awards and Recognition

The renovation of High Mountain Hall earned a 2025 Maine Preservation Honor Award for the project architect, Barba + Wheelock Architects in Portland. The project also raised $8 million from over 150 donors through a capital campaign.

“Dedicated and passionate Mainers are revitalizing significant places that ground our sense of place along the coast and inland, and contribute to local economies, create housing and foster community connection,” said Tara Kelly, Maine Preservation’s executive director.

Conclusion

The revitalization of High Mountain Hall is a testament to the power of adaptive reuse and community-driven development. By engaging with local experts and incorporating community feedback, Bay Chamber Concerts and Music School has created a thriving space that benefits not only the institution but also the surrounding community.

As the project architect, Cynthia Wheelock, said, “We are proud to have been a part of this project.