Client: Northern KY. African American Heritage Task Force, State of Kentucky African American Commission
Location: Newport, KY

Project:
Southgate School Building was historically the Public School System' segregated and site Elementary School for many of Northern Kentucky' African-American citizens. Once desegregation became law of the land in 1955, it was closed and purchased by the Newport Lodge 120 Masons. The building nonetheless had suffered serious deferred maintenance and needed an overall pan developed for its restoration which in concert with its historical significant being celebrated and magnified would return Southgate School to its once vital role in the life of Northern Kentucky.

Details:
Alexander/Camabeam nka FWAS was hired to conduct a feasibility study to determine the most likely plan for restoration; and to investigate options for future public/private uses as a Museum/Cultural Center. After extensive meetings and design analysis, the project evolved into an unshakable duality. The exterior spaces, new courtyard and monument areas, plus the complete first floor would be for public use, while the second level would be private utilized by the building' owners. This created a sensitive separation of public and private functioning.

Maximum flexibility of the public spaces achieved through innovation design concepts; such as, the large meeting room, has a "rotating wall" which can be arranged to set-up in at least four distinct configurations. ADA compliance was creativity accomplished, despite limitations of site.