CHARLOTTE, N.C., October 18, 2007 -- Employees from Merriman Schmitt Architects helped renovate two of Alexander Youth Network's Psychiatric Residential Treatment classrooms as part of an "Extreme Makeover: Classroom Edition" project organized by the Charlotte Chapter of the International Interior Design Association.

It was the second time MSA staff had helped renovate classrooms at Alexander.  Two years prior, MSA and IIDA volunteers remodeled three classrooms at the agency's Charlotte campus.

"Alexander Youth Network does great things in the community to help children and we've been involved with their organization on a variety of projects for several years," said Steve Schmitt, AIA, president of the firm.

The makeover project consisted of completely gutting the two classrooms and replacing ceilings, lighting, window treatments, floors, and installing carpet, tile and fixtures.  The volunteers also painted the rooms and installed a mural on two walls -- one in each classroom.  Materials were donated by area vendors and contractors.

Visit www.alexanderyouthnetwork.org for more information on the children's mental health agency.

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