In a moderately unexpected turn of events, Westminster Upper School executives have decided to turn Pressly Hall into a massive 11,000 square-foot innovation space.

Pressly Hall, erected in 1962, has served as the centerpiece of the Westminster campus since its founding. With its iconic Ionic columns, Pressly Hall currently houses Westminster’s performing arts departments, and its steps form the basis of “Spatio,” the brick patio where seniors engage in activities like studying, relaxing in the sun, and playing overly-competitive Spikeball matches. However, with the new renovations incoming, the performing arts departments will now merge with middle school groups and hold practice in Broyles Art Center.

“I am really excited to have even more toys to tinker with!” said second-year Innovation Fellow Bob the Builder, “The Blake Center has been great, but now, I’ll be able to run 20 3D printers simultaneously: a perfectly efficient use of school resources.”

Students are also looking forward to the relocation of the annual performance of Handel’s Messiah, which will now take place in the Atlanta Symphony Hall.

“The wooden pews in Pressly are so painful on your back,” said an unnamed freshman, “at least next year, I’ll be able to enjoy the music in those soft red chairs at the Symphony!”

However, in the performing arts department, many do not share these sentiments.

“I haven’t stepped foot in Broyles since eighth grade,” said junior Harmony Melody, a current soprano with the Westminster choir. “What if the middle schoolers end up being better than me at singing?”

Much of this transformation has been met with controversy among students and faculty. The benefits and consequences of the new “Pressly Center for Innovation” remain to be seen.