Page:Architectural Record 1920-08 Vol 48 Iss 2.djvu/68



fluous. The entire window-space, as a rule, is open to light and air. The window openings are of ample dimensions and there is usually a refreshing breeze to modify the tropical heat, seldom excessive or uncomfortably felt in a climate so even that one can always dress for it in light clothing. Even directly under the sun there is such a breeze that the heat is seldom oppressive. In case of the frequent showers the window-shutters are closed for the time being if there happens to be a driving wind. Strangers from the States, on being shown over a schoolhouse when the school is in session, are struck by the absolute purity of the air due to the large open windows. There is not a trace of the characteristic “schoolhouse smell’ so familiar under northern conditions, even in buildings where particular attention is paid to a scientifically modern ventilating system—an odor that lingers in rooms and corridors even when they are empty. In Porto Rico there is nothing of that.

In his schoolhouse designs Mr. Finlayson has aimed to provide ample window-space. The atmosphere is substantially that of out of doors; there could be no logical call for special outdoor schools for sickly pupils here; every school is practically in the open.

A north light is also aimed at wherever practicable. This is not always feasible; for instance, the conditions of the site in case of the great Roman Baldorioty de Castro School in San Juan made it necessary to provide as many classrooms on the south as on the north side. This important graded and technical school, with its eighteen class-rooms and nearly as much space devoted to technical and other purposes, is the largest school building in Porto Rico, and also the latest to be completed.

The building occupies the site of the ancient Franciscan monastery, demolished to give way to it, only the church, almost adjacent, remaining. The extraordi-