This project, to restore and re-purpose this former school for African Americans in Smyrna, Delaware, was an undertaking which required unique building techniques. The desire of the school district to maintain the original brick façade, while removing the existing interior walls, foundation and floor and roof structures, was a daunting task accomplished by utilizing an extensive system of outside bracing to preserve the structure. Once all new construction was completed inside and new floor and roof structures were added, the shoring was removed to reveal an updated, modernized yet historically sustained building.
