Renovating a Colonial Revival style home

Renovating a Colonial Revival style home, also sometimes referred to as Neocolonial.

On a quiet summer evening, the old white house stood proudly at the end of Maple Street, its porch lights casting a warm glow on the American flag fluttering gently in the breeze. Inside, the Johnson family gathered around the dining table, laughter and the clinking of dishes filling the air as they shared stories of their day.

With its sturdy columns and welcoming porch, the house had witnessed generations of memories, each echoing through its halls like a comforting melody. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the house seemed to sigh contentedly, cradling the family's joy within its walls.

This is a renovation project we took on many years ago. It just welcomed you. I believe this was an FHA 203k, and the value was substantially enhanced by the renovations they had planned after many years of a lack of updating. 

Here is the real story that goes with this wonderful home:

The old house at 2321 Woodridge Dr. had stood sentinel for generations, its bones whispering tales of laughter and tears, of whispered secrets and boisterous celebrations. Its Colonial Revival facade, once a symbol of proud elegance, had faded with time, the white paint peeling like sunburnt skin, the black shutters drooping like tired eyelids. Yet, within its walls, a heart of warm memories still beat.

Elara, a wisp of a woman with eyes as bright as the Carolina sun, inherited the house from her grandmother. Elara saw potential, unlike her siblings, who saw only a money pit. She heard the whispers of the past but also dreamt of a future where the old house would once again be a beacon of joy, infused with modern comforts while retaining its timeless charm.

Her vision was audacious: a blend of old and new, a conversation between the stoic elegance of the Colonial era and the vibrant energy of the 21st century. The first step was shedding the years of neglect. The peeling paint was stripped, revealing the sturdy bones beneath, and a warm, inviting cream reminiscent of clotted cream under a summer sun was repainted. The shutters, once black, were reimagined in a deep teal, adding a pop of color that hinted at the vibrancy within.

Inside, the house transformed. Walls were opened, creating a flowing space encouraging interaction and laughter. The dark, cramped kitchen was replaced with a bright, airy space featuring sleek, modern appliances juxtaposed with the original, beautifully restored hardwood floors. A large island crafted from reclaimed wood became the heart of the home, a place for family and friends to gather.

Upstairs, the bedrooms were infused with personality. Elara chose soft, calming colors, creating sanctuaries for rest and rejuvenation. The master suite became a haven of luxury, with a spa-like bathroom that whispered promises of relaxation.

Once overgrown and forgotten, the backyard was transformed into an oasis of tranquility. A sprawling patio, perfect for al fresco dining, extended from the back of the house, overlooking a lush garden filled with fragrant blooms and verdant foliage. A fire pit, crafted from weathered stones, became a focal point, promising cozy evenings under the starlit sky.

Modernization wasn't just about aesthetics. Elara was passionate about sustainability. Solar panels were installed on the roof, harnessing the sun's power, and energy-efficient windows replaced the old, drafty ones. The house, once a symbol of a bygone era, became a model of eco-conscious living.

The transformation of 2321 Woodridge Dr. was more than just a renovation; it was a rebirth. It was a testament to Elara's vision, her ability to see beyond the faded facade and recognize the potential within. The old house, once whispering tales of the past, now sang a song of hope, a symphony of old and new, of timeless elegance and modern comfort. It stood proudly, a beacon of light in the neighborhood, ready to embrace the future while honoring its rich history. And as the sun set each day, casting a warm glow upon its cream-colored walls and teal shutters, the house seemed to smile, content in its renewed purpose.