The Frisco Building was originally built as a railroad depot in 1913 and was Joplin’s first modern high-rise office building. It served as a train depot until 1955. After years of gradually losing tenants, the building was completely vacant by 1987. By early 2001, the city was considering demolition until Carlson Gardner, Inc. began restoration of the Frisco Building in April of 2002.

Frisco Senior Apartments has been presented with many awards, including the First Place Award (Platinum) for Overall Project in Renovated Seniors Housing at the National Association of Home Builders 2005 Best of Senior Housing Awards, the Governor's Award for Excellence in Affordable Housing and the "Best of the Best" Award from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

This historic restoration preserved the architectural integrity and beauty of the building while providing 57 modern, safe, comfortable and affordable one and two bedroom apartments for seniors.