A Family’s Unique Home Renovation Project: Converting a 19th-Century Schoolhouse into a Cozy Abode
A Labor of Love
Danielle and Kreg Jones, a couple with a passion for renovating homes, embarked on a unique project with their son, exploring their creative skills and teaching their son about building and maintenance. The project involved converting a 19th-century schoolhouse in Weare, New Hampshire, into a cozy abode.
A Brief History of the Schoolhouse
The North Weare Schoolhouse was built in 1856 and served as a public school until 1952. It was later used as a town meeting place until the 1980s. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. The Jones family was drawn to the property due to its rich history, architecture, and sense of community.
Acquisition and Renovation
The family acquired the schoolhouse in February 2021, and after eight months of renovations, they moved in. The total cost of the project was $440,000, with $220,000 spent on the renovation and the remaining $220,000 spent on the initial purchase. The goal was to preserve the original features while adding a touch of color and life to the space.
Preserving the Original Structure
The family made a conscious effort to maintain the schoolhouse’s historic charm. They preserved the original floors, ceiling, chalk rails, stairway, doors, and even a wall from the early 1900s that had the name of schoolchildren carved into it. They also repurposed antique doors to construct a bed and used many of the building’s original details to create a unique and functional home.
A Home Filled with Light
The family is thrilled with their new home, which is filled with natural light. The large windows and high ceilings make the space feel open and airy, while the original condition of the building adds character. The family has lived in the converted schoolhouse for over three years now and has no plans to move.
Lessons Learned
For Danielle, the biggest lesson she learned from this project was the importance of trying new things and not worrying about what others think. "Just try it because there aren’t many things that are actually irreversible," she emphasized.
Conclusion
The Jones family’s story is a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and perseverance. Their unique renovation project not only transformed a historic building but also brought them closer together as a family. As they look to the future, they remain open to new opportunities, but for now, they are content to enjoy their cozy and charming schoolhouse home.
FAQs
Q: How did the Jones family find the 19th-century schoolhouse?
A: They stumbled upon the property while searching for a new home in New Hampshire.
Q: What was the total cost of the renovation?
A: The total cost was $440,000, with $220,000 spent on the initial purchase and $220,000 spent on the renovation.
Q: How long did the renovation take?
A: The family spent eight months renovating the schoolhouse.
Q: What was the most challenging part of the project?
A: Danielle mentioned that they had to install a ceiling in the primary bedroom.
Q: Do the Jones family have any plans to move out of their converted schoolhouse in the future?
A: No, they do not plan to move out and are content to remain in their unique and charming home.
