“Trapped Treasure”- Bucks County Interior Renovation

Neglected and abused for decades, this centuries old farmhouse held a distinctive appeal in the eyes of its new home owners. Perhaps they could see through the years of abandonment and visualize the intended form and function from inception. Having been a family home, a general store, and a gas station and later housed a multitude of questionable activities, its original purpose was long buried under years of desertion. Immediately upon entry, our clients fell in love with the wide plank pumpkin pine floor boards, the pie shaped staircases, and deep window sills. Their desires included: rip out the old carpet and refinish the original hard wood, relocate the kitchen, change the first floor layout to create a better flow for the central living space, create a home office and powder room, freshen the walls and windows with new paint, construct additional storage/closet space, and refurbish the exterior. All very achievable, however a continual onslaught of obstacles arose before their dream home could be a reality.

The original home was 300 years old and boasted two additions, one constructed 90 years earlier and the other dating back 200 years. It became apparent that portions of the foundation in the 300 year old section had crumbled, which meant the priority was to sure-up the centuries old structure. On that fresh and solid groundwork would rise a new and innovative custom kitchen. Additionally, portions of the 90 year old sections were deemed unworthy to salvage, a sprawling, multidimensional addition was designed to meet the client’s needs and desires. This included a living room, dining room, master bedroom/bathroom, laundry and home office space. Exceeding all expectations, it was specifically erected with the same footprint to replace the previously demolished structure.

The challenges kept multiplying. The dream of beautiful old wood floors became a nightmare when the timeworn carpet was torn up only to reveal plywood. Methodically the plywood treads under the old carpet on the charming pie shaped stairs were removed and carefully replaced with original planks from a back section in the third floor attic. The flow on the second floor was vastly improved when the rooms were reassigned, walls moved and closets created. All windows and doors were replaced and the deep window sills were brought back to life from their decomposed state. The endless nooks and crannies throughout the expansive structure were uncovered and refurbished. The entire house was rewired, plumbed to code, spray foamed and a central vacuum was installed throughout. One by one, each of the various challenges were successfully conquered as energizing air began to flow in and out of each renovated room. With a brand new lease on life, the deteriorated home had an updated and undeniable allure. Respectful of its history, the drastic renovation restored the graceful dignity of the homestead and transformed the dilapidated structure in every aspect. As its past was honored, the now remodeled present provides new breath for a purposeful future.