RedClay Design

11/15/2025

09/25/2024

Dillon Historic School

Side by side parallels of how this historic South Carolina school was inhabited in the past to its present state. We at RedClay Design have a deep attachment to understanding the resided history of the spaces we are entrusted to re-envision the future occupancy of. Through a historic lens, we start to see how the building’s site components have been attached to the memories of its occupants. An entry stair stoop of the 1936 auditorium, once deemed a place of recognition tied to seniority status and tradition, is intended to be rehabbed and restored to 21st century production standards and become fully operational for continued use as an auditorium.

The legacy of the Dillon Graded School is community commitment to education and the unique aspect of the high-style architecture of its time, regardless of the historic geographic remoteness from large cities. The Dillon Grade school will compatibly convert classrooms to apartment units, with exciting historic amenities and building components preserved. The original auditorium and gymnasium will be retained as open spaces and the preserved historic doors, windows, and floors will be kept throughout.
 We hope you follow along with this project and its legacy of community and growth! With a rich history of resilience to social and economic factors, standing the test of time, we are excited to see the new chapter of life that the historic Dillon Grade School will take on. Once filled with bustling students in hallways, peers sharing lunch in the cafeteria, and the heart of arts and performing in the auditorium; it is the hope that the new class of residents to reside here will continue the legacy of community and building beginnings together!

09/04/2024

Nothing cures the end of summer blues like a perfect pop of color.

08/27/2024

Now that you have seen the outside of Radel Manufacturing, lets take a look at the progress on the inside. This project is a beast of its own. Designing a manufacturing plant from an existing building came with special challenges. Thankfully we had the perfect team to deal with it. It took the collaboration of many different disciplines and expertise to get to a final design. Architects, engineers, investors, and many others have put in countless hours to make sure this project goes off without a hitch.

08/22/2024

3-D Model in Progress!
It is always helpful, especially with existing buildings, to create the shell and bones so we can see how to best add life back in. With a building like the Radel Manufacturing plant, there are intricate curves and angles that create unique architectural details both within the interior and among the façade of the building. In this case, building a model helps both us and the client envision a successful and functional design.

08/21/2024

When it rains it pours! Its been a busy couple of months for us here, but in the best way possible. Getting to see these spaces that we have put so much time and attention into, beginning to transform is incredible. We love seeing our visions and the site's history come to life!

08/14/2024

Mill windows make the best accents! The original windows in this school created a gorgeous modern gallery wall of windows in each of the new units. Matching these windows with warm gray kitchen cabinet created the perfect blend of modern and industrial, while also being homey for the future residents.

08/07/2024

Warm weather makes for the best photoshoot days. Greenery in full bloom and the sun highlighting the natural beauty of each detail.

08/01/2024

Fun little tenant upfit that we worked on in Matthews, NC.

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07/22/2024

Having a space that is this stunning before we even start work makes our jobs very easy! Just imagine what it will look when its all done ✨

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06/25/2024

Removing trash, cleaning walls, and replacing the windows is all part of what is going to turn this abandoned shop into a staple food market for Hickory, NC. By utilizing the awesome textures on the walls and unique aspects of the garage doors, this space will soon be a trendy, industrial market. With the option of seated dining, a café, a walk-up window, and multiple outdoor attractions including an amphitheater, we hope to make this a hub for local vendors, fresh food, and community.