Before demolition begins in the former cafeteria at Keith Junior High School, there’s one important step happening first — salvaging the history built into the structure itself.
Throughout the building, original craftsmanship can still be found in remarkable condition. Around the doorways, solid oak trim and moldings have survived decades of use and remain beautifully preserved. The oak doors, detailed woodwork, and large custom moldings are more than just building materials — they are pieces of the school’s story.
Rather than discarding those historic elements during renovation, the goal is to carefully remove and preserve as much of the original material as possible.
Many of these salvaged pieces will be incorporated directly into the new apartments being created inside the building. From restored trim and doors to architectural accents, these details will allow each unit to retain a connection to the building’s past while becoming part of a completely new living space.
That balance between preservation and transformation is what makes this project so unique.
While the cafeteria itself will soon look very different, small pieces of its history will continue to live on throughout the renovated spaces. Every restored oak door and preserved piece of trim helps carry forward the craftsmanship and character that made Keith Junior High School special for generations.
And seeing the quality of these materials up close makes it easy to understand why they’re worth saving. The oak woodwork remains in incredible shape, showcasing a level of durability and craftsmanship that’s difficult to find today.
As renovation moves forward, more of these historic details will continue to be uncovered, restored, and thoughtfully woven into the next chapter of the building’s story.
