Byrne Construction Services

Architect:

ArchiTexas

Scope Of Work

An interior and exterior restoration to the original 1895 condition, the Ellis County Courthouse was designated as a Texas Historical Commission Preservation Project. The scope of the work involved extensive collaboration with the Texas Historical Commission. The project involved the incorporation of innovative methods of restoring aged materials, integration of updated HVAC and electrical systems in a circa 1895 building, while preserving the integrity of the original structure. All this had to be accomplished while maintaining a budget. The project team produced a savings of over $200,000 through alternates during the pre-construction value engineering phase, value engineering during the project and creative design solutions. A third floor addition above the second floor District Courtroom was removed; the original balcony was replicated in its original location and style. Original wooden windows were restored and preserved. Historic concrete floors were preserved and restored, along with marble floors, millwork and door elements. An added elevator was removed from the center of the central stairs; cast iron stairs were restored, including the replication of ornamental guardrails by a blacksmith and ironworks shop. The courtroom, judges chambers, and administrative office were restored to original condition and configuration. All work was accomplished so that the Ellis County Courthouse received its designation as a Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation project and a Courthouse Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places.