Rafael Viñoly Architects to Revive Detroit's Vacant Levi Barbour School

Levi Barbour Intermediate School in Detroit, vacant since 2009, is set for adaptive reuse under the guidance of Rafael Viñoly Architects and education advocate Kyle Smitley. Smitley, who established Detroit Achievement Academy and Detroit Prep nearly ten years ago on the same block, has acquired the property and is working with a restoration budget of around $30 million. The 186,000-square-foot building, located next to Detroit Prep in the Pingree Park area, was initially designed by Malcomson & Higginbotham. Due to high enrollment demand at her schools, this initiative is seen as an extension of her educational mission. "Detroit kids deserve beautiful, ambitious, inspiring places to learn," Smitley stated. Partner Stephanie Tsang emphasized that Barbour "provides room for program growth." The renovation will focus on essential upgrades while maintaining the school's architectural integrity, with plans to enhance key features through technology and sustainability. Partner Bassam Komati highlighted the civic significance of each project. New York's Parts and Labor Design, founded by Jeremy Levitt, a Detroit-area native, will also contribute. Construction is anticipated to commence in spring 2027, with students expected to arrive in 2029.