Longfellow Senior Housing

Designed by Cleveland School Architect Walter McCormack, this Jacobethan Revival style Henry W. Longfellow Elementary School served the Collinwood neighborhood from 1924 until 2010.

When it became apparent that the building was slated for demolition, Councilman Polensek and the Cleveland Restoration Society intervened. CRS actively led a three-year effort to have the Longfellow School rehabilitated and returned to productive use in the community.

*After construction was completed at The Longfellow School. Photo Courtesy of Vesta Corporation/Marous Brothers Construction/LDA Architects.*

*Historic of Longfellow School. Photo Courtesy of Vesta Corporation/Marous Brothers Construction/LDA Architects*.

*Before picture of the interior gym at Longfellow School. Photo Courtesy of Vesta Corporation/Marous Brothers Construction/LDA Architects*.

*During picture of the gym at Longfellow School. Photo Courtesy of Vesta Corporation/Marous Brothers Construction/LDA Architects*.

*After picture of the gym at Longfellow School. Photo Courtesy of Vesta Corporation/Marous Brothers Construction/LDA Architects*.

The team of Vesta Corporation, Marous Construction and LDA Architects were able to successfully transform the former school into 30 affordable senior apartments and build another 50 additional living units on the site. Converting the auditorium into a community space and the gymnasium into a fitness area specifically designed for seniors ensures that the space remains accessible and caters to the unique needs of the aging population.

For the work that was done on this project, the companies and teams of people who were involved in the restoration of the Longfellow School were awarded the 2024 Celebration of Preservation Distinguished Rehabilitation and Community Impact Award. To learn more about the construction process, watch the video below!

The Longfellow has solidified its place as an integral and cherished part of the Collinwood community. Not only does it serve as a vibrant focal point, but it also actively contributes to the community’s economic prosperity.

Additionally, the development plan has provided the Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) with a duplicable strategy when future schools face decommissioning.