From Classrooms to Condos: How Conroe is Turning History into Housing

Have you ever driven by a beautiful, old building and wondered about its story? In our growing Texas communities, preserving these historic gems while also addressing the need for more housing can be a real challenge. But a new project in Conroe is showing how we can do both!

Here in Conroe, a fascinating project is underway that will transform the former Sam Houston Elementary School into a multi-family apartment complex. It’s a great example of a growing trend: repurposing historic buildings to create unique, character-filled living spaces. This isn’t just about adding more apartments; it’s about a creative, sustainable approach to community development.

A Second Life for a Historic Landmark

The Sam Houston Elementary School, originally built in 1937, holds a special place in Conroe’s history. With its Art Deco design and beautiful interior details, the building is a piece of living history. After serving the community for decades, the school building was vacant for some time, and now, thanks to Overland Property Group, it’s getting a new purpose.

The plan is to convert the school into 71 multi-family apartments, a project that will be named Landmark 601. The developers are focused on preserving the building’s original charm, including its stunning stained wood interiors and a large auditorium that will be utilized for community and arts-related events. They’re even working to get the building listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which shows a serious commitment to preserving its legacy.

Why is This a Big Deal for Our Area?

This project is a win-win for our community. Here’s why:

• Solving the Housing Shortage: As a rapidly growing area, Conroe, The Woodlands, Spring, and surrounding towns are experiencing a housing shortage. This project adds 71 new living units to the market, helping to meet the demand for homes in our area.
• Preserving History: Instead of being demolished, a significant historic building is being saved and celebrated. This keeps a piece of Conroe’s identity intact for future generations.
• Unique Living Spaces: These aren’t your typical apartments. They offer a living experience with character and a story. For those who appreciate history and unique architecture, this is an incredible opportunity.
• Sustainable Development: Repurposing existing structures is a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to development than building new from scratch.

This project isn’t just about new apartments; it’s a blueprint for smart growth that honors our past while building for the future. It shows how we can creatively use existing infrastructure to create much-needed housing while protecting our community’s heritage. It's an exciting development for Conroe and a great example for the entire Houston area!

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to move up, the market in Conroe, The Woodlands, and our surrounding areas is constantly evolving. Understanding what your home is worth is the first step toward making your next move.

Sources: Houston Chronicle. (2025). Conroe's old Sam Houston Elementary to become an apartment complex with Overland redevelopment. Retrieved from https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/houston-texas/trending/article/sam-houston-elementary-overland-renovation-21053315.php