Delphi wins historic preservation award for Sand Hill School Community Center

Sandwich, MA Delphi Construction has received the Sandwich Historic Preservation Award for its work on the Sand Hill School Community Center. The company’s restoration and renovation work on the nearly 170 year old building was recognized by both the Sandwich Historical Commission and The Sandwich Old King’s Highway Historic District Committee.

Delphi won the bid to restore and renovate the town-owned, 1851 vintage building which originally served as a school house for the glass-working families in the neighborhoods around the Boston and Sandwich Glass Co. The building was originally constructed in the distinctive Carpenter Gothic style but had been modified so greatly over the years that it had lost much of its original historic architectural character. CPA funding made the renovation possible. 

Delphi project manager, Drew Sylvia, who managed the project out of Delphi’s Mashpee office commented on the announcement of the award. “We are honored to be recognized with this award.  As a Cape-based company with strong ties to the community, we are delighted to have played a role in restoring this historic local landmark, reclaiming its architectural character and returning it to full use for the Town of Sandwich. Of course, this was very much a team effort among all the stakeholders. I’d especially like to recognize the outstanding work provided by the architectural team at McGinley Kalsow & Associates. It was their historically-rooted design vision that we simply helped bring to life.”  

Major exterior work included the preservation and restoration of the building’s existing chimney, the removal of a failing asphalt roof and replacement with historically appropriate yellow cedar shingles. All four sides of the building were sided with traditional clapboard and painted in period color. New energy efficient windows were also added throughout. The distinctive cresting along the roofline was an important architectural feature of the building.

Significant work was also undertaken to ensure the accessibility, security and energy efficiency of the restored historic building. These included an entirely new HVAC system, added insulation to the basement and attic as well as a new fire protection system. Two new bathrooms and a kitchenette were added to accommodate different user groups. A new handicap entry way was created to comply with the ADA and provide inclusive access to all.

“The Sandwich Historical Commission is thrilled with the work that Delphi Construction performed on the Sand Hill School Community Center.  They were professional and held themselves to a high degree of craftsmanship, so important on a historic building restoration.  Renovations on an antique often come with unique challenges and Delphi was more than up to the task.” Said Lisa Hassler of the Sandwich Historical Commission

Delphi Construction waw presented with the award at a ceremony on May 18, 2019.