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A Classy Makeover! This Texas School-Turned-Home Gets an A-Plus

Passers-by might mistake this low-slung structure in Mart, TX, as nothing more than an old school and dismiss the building as a creepy relic. The characteristic red brick, large windows, and rusted basketball hoops outside scream deserted schoolhouse.

However, a peek inside reveals a full-on residential home. The cool converted ’60s-era school is now on the market for $465,000.

The homeowners, Jack and Rita Code, simply needed a project, says listing coordinator Patti Gentry.

“I asked them the same question you’re asking me,” she says with a laugh. “Why in the world would you renovate this old school?”

The Codes had a vision, and they stayed way after class to make it happen. And if they were to receive a grade for this project, it would be an A-plus.

The school, which was sold at auction, was originally purchased by local real estate agent Carolyn Potts and her husband. The Codes wound up buying a section of the school from the Potts, while a separate section was sold to another buyer.

With a swath of classrooms, lunchroom, and offices now in their possession, the Codes went about the renovation, which took about 10 years to complete.

“It’s probably one of the most unique properties I’ve ever seen,” Gentry says.

Each room was renovated from top to bottom, while retaining some original touches as a place of learning.

In the master bedroom—a massive space that was once the school library—the school’s original bookshelves are used as decoration and storage space.

Another bedroom still has the original chalkboards on the walls.

Likewise, what’s now the home’s hallway features intact original lockers. The Codes did their homework when converting the science lab into the kitchen and dining room. The windows were so large that sliding glass doors were installed, and the space itself was large enough to hold a few dining tables.

The Codes added a breezeway, which now serves as the front entrance of the home. It’s also connected to the garage, aka the school cafeteria and auditorium.

The renovation costs were just as impressive as the transformation itself.

“We know that the cost of renovating the bathrooms alone was around $30,000,” says Gentry.

The Codes are now looking to retire, and ready to sell their cool home. With this much space, the home could easily work as a deluxe short-term rental on Airbnb, retreat center, or summer camp venue.

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