Theodore Roosevelt High School

As the lead partner in the joint venture, Smoot Construction led the Design Build team responsible for all phases of the school modernization including preconstruction, renovation and close-out.

Roosevelt High School was completely transformed from an old, dilapidated 1930’s high school to a new 21st century learning environment. This modernization involved replacing or upgrading all building systems and components to new condition and modifying space to meet programmatic requirements. Scope of work included abatement, selective interior demolition, preservation and restoration of historic fabric to include windows, stone and masonry, woodwork, and moldings. The renovated 331,000 sf school includes sections for arts, academics and athletics.

Our goal was to transform the building into a technology-enhanced facility that operates at a high performance level for its mechanical systems. Out of respect for the 1930s structure, we found ways to celebrate the historic features of the building such as:

1. Historic lobby: Restoration of marble flooring, wood doors and casing, historic pendant light fixtures, etc.
2. Cupola: Ornament that was stripped from the cupola during the 1970’s was replicated base off original drawings and reinstalled to bring cupola back to former glory
3. Auditorium: Plaster walls and ceilings, wood seating, pendent light fixtures were restored to celebrate original design and detailing
4. Murals: Murals from the 1930’s were uncovered in the cafeteria behind layers of paint.They were removed by the strappo technique, painstakingly restored, and are now features at main entrance to celebrate history of the place.