Located in a predominantly African American section of New Bern, the public housing complex was constructed to serve African American residents, while Trent Court (q.v.) was built for white residents; this pattern was typical of public housing during much of the 20th century. Craven Terrace comprises substantial two-story brick buildings with plaques depicting children at play. It was also typical of the public housing programs of the time to commission prominent local and regional architects as the designers. Many of North Carolina’s examples of this important aspect of housing history have been destroyed. Portions of the Craven Terrace complex have been removed, but much still stands and has been renovated for renewed use.