Client: ScholarMade Achievement Place
Location: Little Rock, Arkansas
Size: 46,195 SF
Services: Architecture / Historic Preservation / Renovation / Addition
WDD Architects led the adaptive reuse and historic preservation of the landmark James Mitchell School in Little Rock, transforming the long-vacant property into a vibrant new home for ScholarMade Achievement Place. Originally constructed in 1908 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the building was meticulously rehabilitated to balance architectural heritage with a 21st-century learning environment. The revitalized campus features modern classrooms, a library, lecture hall, fine arts studios, collaboration zones, student support suites, a full kitchen and cafeteria, and outdoor recreation areas.
Historic elements throughout the building were restored or replicated, including limestone detailing, decorative columns and terra cotta elements, wood stairs and railings, pressed-tin ceilings and historically appropriate windows. WDD also designed a new enclosed connector linking the historic three-story school with later campus buildings. The addition, along with a new elevator and other accessibility improvements, provides an accessible connection across the campus while allowing the historic architecture to remain the focus. New mechanical and electrical systems, roofing and site improvements further prepared the century-old school for its next chapter.
Preserve Arkansas – Excellence in Preservation through Rehabilitation
Clinton Schools: Rainey Follows Education Path to ScholarMade
