ST. BENEDICT’S CLASSICAL ACADEMY, NATICK, MASSACHUSETTS

The project aimed to build a new St. Benedict Classical Academy in Natick, Massachusetts, and create a modern K-6 school with a residential, homey feel. The design needed to accommodate a growing student population while reflecting the school’s history, which was once housed in a renovated home. The architectural team, incorporated a temple front pediment to honor the school’s Catholic identity and used finishes like siding and terracotta shingles to blend with the local New England aesthetic. A unique aspect was finding a durable paint for schools that would work with the unique poly-ash siding, a cementitious material that mimics the look and workability of wood while offering superior durability. 

From Keim:

To complement the poly-ash siding, the design team specified KEIM mineral silicate paint. The decision was based on KEIM’s reputation for exceptional durability, which aligned with the project’s goal of creating a long-lasting building. The mineral paint’s key benefits included its ability to bond with the substrate without peeling or flaking, its non-toxic, VOC-free composition, and its rich, vibrant aesthetic quality. Specifically, the paint’s bright white color was crucial for the courtyard design, as it reflected sunlight deep into the building’s interior, creating a “bright human environment.” Harrison Design’s long-standing positive relationship with KEIM and the product’s superior performance led the project manager to recommend the paint enthusiastically.