Picture this A grand seven-story structure stands before you. This is the Central King Building a testament to history and architectural prowess. Originally known as Central High School then later Commercial and Manual Training High School it served as a beacon of education for generations of Newark students. Designed in 1911 the building’s Jacobean style is captivating. Its brick and terra cotta facade is accented by four impressive corner towers. The style is actually a blend of Jacobean and Tudor Gothic.
The Central King Building wasn’t just a school it was a bustling hub of activity. Imagine 1200 students filling its halls. The first floor housed workshops a machine shop a metalworking area and classrooms. Upper floors contained classrooms labs a library and even rooms for sewing and millinery. The building was truly a marvel of its time a comprehensive learning environment. Even a swimming pool replaced a grand staircase sometime around 1970.
In 2010 New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) acquired the building. A significant renovation followed transforming it into a modern learning center. This extensive project costing around $85 million included the creation of state-of-the-art labs classrooms and collaborative spaces. The renovations were completed in 2017. The revitalized Central King Building now houses NJIT’s Center for Innovation and Discovery a Biological Sciences Education and Research Center and various teaching and learning centers.
The building’s transformation is impressive. Yet it carefully preserves its historical significance. Original features like the rooftop gargoyles and some interior surfaces were retained. The Central King Building’s story embodies adaptation resilience and the enduring value of education. This building has a rich history from its origins as a high school to its present-day role as a vibrant part of NJIT’s campus. It is a place of learning innovation and architectural beauty.