The 128-year-old Cantril School is entering a new chapter as an arts and culture center. Phase 1 of renovations focused on preserving its historic character while enhancing accessibility and functionality. These updates honor the building’s past while ensuring it remains a vibrant community space.

The project restored the original windows, maintaining their historic integrity while improving efficiency. The kitchen received new cabinetry and fixtures, along with the restoration of a non-operational sash on the pass-through counter. To improve accessibility, a FlexStep was installed at the entrance to the elevated community room. This required reinforcing the floor joists with a steel bent plate, beams, and columns. A former classroom was converted into modern restrooms, with exploratory demolition ensuring plumbing, electrical, and HVAC could be routed through the existing structure.

All work was completed while the building remained in use, requiring careful coordination to minimize disruptions. These updates allow the Cantril School to continue serving the community while preserving its historic character.

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