Marshall High Studios and Rob Pulleyn received an award for the adaptive reuse of a historic high school in Marshall, NC, as studio space for artists.

Marshall High Studios gives us a creative example of successful adaptive use of a historic building. In 2006, the old Marshall High School, which had served students in the town since 1925, was scheduled to be demolished. However, protests from the residents of Marshall, a petition drive that gathered 3,000 signatures, and a fundraising effort led to a different outcome. The funds raised were used to pay for a structural analysis of the building and buy prominent ads in the local newspaper urging county commissioners to save the valuable community resource.

The controversy piqued the curiosity of Rob Pulleyn of nearby Shelby. After touring the building, Rob saw through the years of decay and neglect to recognize the building's potential. Rob quickly developed a plan to turn the building into studio and exhibit space for the region's growing community of artists. Risk isn't a new thing to Rob Pulleyn. He invested in buildings in downtown Asheville long before the current downtown renaissance. Even though he's since moved on to a second career as a ceramicist, old habits die hard. So, like Rob himself, the old Marshall High School building would have a second career in the arts.

After his first purchase offer was rejected, Rob collaborated with another local resident to meet the county's asking price. The renovation took nine months and required a total investment of almost $2 million. Structural problems required jacking up the center of the building, adding new joists, and undertaking extensive roof repairs. The new arts center opened in the fall of 2007 with refurbished original windows and floors, new electrical and plumbing systems, a ventilation system, a solar hot water system and many other enhancements. About a third of those who worked on the building had attended school at Marshall High. At the grand opening, many former students told stories reflecting on their years in the building.

Today, Marshall High Studios is at 80% occupancy. The rehabilitation project not only saved a valuable structure, but also ignited the community's passion for its historic architecture, serving as a catalyst for other renovation projects, new business development, and a more positive community image. Marshall High Studios has inspired others to embrace the merits of historic preservation and created a renewed sense of community. For his leadership, we are pleased to present Rob Pulleyn a 2008 Gertrude S. Carraway Award of Merit for the Marshall High Studios. Jim Woodruff accepted the award.