Project Background:

Built by the Oliver Mining Company in the early 1920s, the historic Hibbing High School is a landmark that was listed on the National Historic Register in 1980. With unique, hand-molded ceilings, crystal cut-glass chandeliers imported from Belgium, and many more regal features, the Hibbing High School Auditorium is known for its elegant design and is the town’s most recognizable feature.

 

ARI worked closely with the school district and community to develop the design of a historically-accurate restoration, completed in two phases.

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Throughout this project, ARI worked intensively to maintain the historical integrity of the auditorium. This process included ARI’s direct involvement in all phases, from schematic design to construction administration, and through the post-construction phase onto the completed result of the design. ARI also collaborated with the Historical Society to move this project forward. This involvement included ARI’s submission of plans over three attempts, in order to gain approval from the Historic Society to move forward with the restoration.

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Recently completed, Phase I included the stage-centered restoration and upgrades, such as rigging, sound, lighting, and overall technology upgrades. Phase II, which began in June of 2017, was the more visible historical restoration design, such as restoration of all seating, flooring, painting, and historic details. More upgrades and restoration to the auditorium include improvement of energy efficiency, video performance package, acoustical shell & risers, and ADA accessibility.