The Justice Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center

MOI played a key role in the revitalization of P.S. 103, The Justice Thurgood Marshall Amenity Center, located in West Baltimore's historic Upton neighborhood. Originally known as the Henry Highland Garnet School, this iconic building once served as an educational cornerstone for the community, nurturing future leaders like Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall. The renovation of P.S. 103 aimed to reclaim its legacy as a community hub, serving both as an educational facility and a center for social and civic engagement. The building's historical significance, coupled with its close proximity to important landmarks like the former law offices of Juanita Jackson Mitchell, Maryland’s first Black female lawyer, and the Union Baptist Church, which has supported the community since 1852, made the project a vital part of West Baltimore's cultural heritage.

MOI played a pivotal role in selecting furniture to activate the diverse spaces within the building, ensuring flexibility for hosting community events. The furniture selection included office spaces, ancillary lounge areas, display cases for historical artifacts, and mobile tables and seating for a large multi-purpose room. In addition to the furniture, MOI designed and installed interior wall solutions such as curtain walls, and walls featuring
back-painted glass and markerboard tiles with integrated technology. The project faced challenges, including coordinating the installation of large recessed displays, connecting power to the base building, and fitting oversized walls into a historic structure—all while carefully balancing the preservation of the building’s historical character with the integration of modern technology.

Despite the scheduling and budget constraints of the project, the space now serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity for the area, reflecting its role in West Baltimore's ongoing efforts toward social equity and community empowerment. The transformation of P.S. 103, with MOI's contribution, represents a significant step toward the revitalization of West Baltimore, restoring a historic building that continues to offer educational and social opportunities to new generations