The Revival of Tillman Hall

November 05, 2025

In a project that combined structural ingenuity, historical reverence and sustainability, NDA member Trifecta Services Company earned top honors in Category 1 of the 2025 NDA Excellence in Demolition Awards for its work on the Tillman Hall Auditorium restoration and demolition at Clemson University in Clemson, South Carolina. This ambitious undertaking pushed the limits of selective demolition in an active, historically significant structure, delivering both a technical triumph and a tribute to the past.

A Historic Mission

The goal of the Tillman Hall project was to restore the university’s iconic auditorium to its original 1893 appearance. Over the years, the space had been altered with non-original structural elements, most significantly massive 2-foot-thick concrete bleachers installed above delicate original wood flooring. Trifecta’s mission was to surgically remove these intrusive additions without harming the building’s historic features, which included intricate mosaic tilework, original brick and windows.

Trifecta was selected for its deep experience in historic preservation and its proven ability to manage complex demolition operations in sensitive, partially occupied buildings. The company’s history of success with delicate structural work made it the top choice for general contractor Harper General Contractors and Clemson University.

Trifecta mobilized on Oct. 8, 2023, and finished ahead of schedule on Jan. 23, 2024, an impressive feat given the scope and complexity of the job. At peak activity, approximately 12 workers were on site, including demolition crews, abatement specialists, safety personnel and historic preservation professionals.

Innovation at Work

Executing the demolition without compromising the structure’s integrity required advanced techniques and precision tools, including:

• Brokk 70 demolition robot: This compact, remote-controlled robot delivered surgical demolition capabilities with minimal vibration, critical when working above historic materials.
• Steel shore posts and land bridges: These were used to redistribute weight safely across vulnerable floors, allowing demolition of heavy concrete bleachers without stressing the original wood below.
• Real-time vibration monitoring: Sensors ensured that even the subtlest movements were tracked, protecting fragile brick and mortar.
• 54 demolition drawings: An unusually high number for such a small footprint, these plans reflected the intricacy and structural sensitivity of the job.

Step-by-Step Execution

From initial planning to final handoff, Trifecta approached the project with meticulous coordination and precision. Each phase was carefully designed to balance structural safety with historic preservation, ensuring that no detail was overlooked in the restoration of this iconic space. Here's how the complex demolition unfolded:

1. Planning phase: Dozens of detailed demolition and shoring drawings were developed to prepare for every contingency.
2. Hazardous material abatement: Crews installed full containment systems and negative pressure zones to remove asbestos-containing materials and lead-based paint—while the building remained partially in use.
3. Selective demolition: All non-original finishes and interior walls were carefully dismantled.
4. Concrete bleacher removal: The most technically demanding phase, this involved removing the 2-foot-thick concrete structures using the Brokk robot, steel shoring, and weight management systems.
5. Salvage operations: Historic mosaic tiles, windows, and other features were preserved for reintegration into the restored space.
6. Final prep: Once cleared and stabilized, the auditorium was turned over to the restoration team for rebuilding.

Sustainability and Stewardship

Trifecta made sustainability a priority. Approximately 90% of all materials were salvaged or recycled, including steel, concrete and architectural elements. Salvaged materials were not only diverted from landfills but also reused in the restored auditorium, preserving the original craftsmanship. Hazardous waste was minimized through stringent abatement protocols, setting a high environmental standard for historic renovation projects.

Challenges Overcome

This was no ordinary demolition. Trifecta navigated numerous technical and logistical challenges:

• Removing massive concrete bleachers without damaging the underlying antique wood floors.
• Maintaining the integrity of fragile historic masonry and tile during vibration-intensive work.
• Performing asbestos and lead paint abatement while parts of the building remained operational.
• Keeping active sprinkler lines functional throughout the demolition process.
• Managing the demands of 54 separate demolition drawings tailored to the structure’s sensitive conditions.

Defining Success

Beyond the physical work, the project also served the local community. Trifecta employed a regional workforce and sourced materials from nearby suppliers. These efforts supported local economic development and created hands-on training opportunities in historic preservation and construction, further deepening the university’s connection to the surrounding area.

For Trifecta, success wasn’t just defined by the early completion date or technical execution. It was about honoring Clemson’s architectural heritage, protecting irreplaceable craftsmanship, and demonstrating that complex demolition can be carried out safely, sustainably and with cultural sensitivity.