Nauset Construction recently began work on a project that will transform an 18th-century tavern into a new facility to be used by the Riverbend School in Natick.

Located at 33 Eliot St., the completed project will provide new classrooms, office and multipurpose space for Riverbend’s expanding campus.

Designed by Piatt Assoc., the project includes the conversion of the Peletiah Morse Tavern, which was built in 1748 to serve as a residence, tavern and stage stop for travelers on the Old Hartford Road, as well as the construction of a 2-story, 4,200 square-foot addition. The existing addition to the tavern (circa 1901) was demolished to make way for the new building. When completed, the new facilities will house math and science classrooms for middle schoolers, a large multipurpose space for music instruction, a “welcome center” for prospective Riverbend School families and administrative offices.

In order to retain the historic character of the tavern, historically accurate replica windows and a hand-hewn front door will be installed, and the wood siding, trim and masonry will reflect the style of the original buildings. The tavern’s first floor will be lowered to increase ceiling height, a second-floor ceiling will be exposed to reveal the original beams and a faux chimney will be rebuilt in the tavern using the bricks from the original (which had previously been demolished). In addition, the entire mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection systems in the tavern will be replaced.

The project is anticipated to be completed by mid-December.