Sandstone housing project The Bookmatch opens tenant applications; move-in ready in July

The Bookmatch — a 32-unit apartment complex in the converted historic Sandstone School building — opened applications for tenants on March 24.

According to a news release from Minneapolis-based firm Jillpine, which is leading the redevelopment effort, the project will be open for move-in on July 1.

"This project will meet a growing demand for workforce housing in Sandstone," said Jillpine founder and principal Meghan Elliott in the release. "We're meeting a market need while also preserving one of the city's most iconic structures."

Construction began in July of 2025. The project carries a $17 million price tag.

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The Bookmatch will offer studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments.

According to the release, Sandstone commissioned a housing study in 2023 that highlighted a shortage of market-rate rental housing in the city.

"Teachers, public-sector employees, healthcare workers, tradespeople, and others who work locally often struggle to find modern rental options that are affordable, safe, and close to their employment," Elliott said in the release. "The Bookmatch was developed with these kind of tenants in mind."

Sandstone City Administrator Kathy George previously said the project will target tenants at 60 to 80 percent of the area median income.

The Sandstone School was originally built in 1900 and was rebuilt with a new wing in 1909 after a fire.

"Old buildings still have a lot to give," Elliott said in the release. "With the right care, they can continue serving communities for another generation."

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