Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Charmed

I want everyone to know I have really enjoyed hearing from you all. Your comments have been so encouraging. Our journey will take about 11 months until completion.
The home was probably built in the 1890's, possibly sooner.
McKinney record keeping at that time was sporadic.
Wayne, our contractor, has been fabulous to work with. He has been an important part of the restoration of McKinney's Historic District.
The first time we looked at the house, it spoke to us in many ways.
Here are a few of the things that charmed us ...

We saw the character in the front door as soon as we walked up on the front porch.
The original staircase greets you as you enter.
Try to picture it without the lovely wallpaper.

The front door stained glass can be appreciated as you gaze down the stairs.
I am picturing my grandsons sliding down this banister or maybe even Mary Poppins sliding UP.

Outside there are a couple of beautiful wooden architectural pieces.

Most of the windows have transoms above them. Thankfully the ones inside will be used only for decoration and not for air flow. Unlike in the 1890's,we get to have A/C!!
In my next post I will show you the history that was revealed as floors and walls were stripped down. It is a little sad to watch the house being taken apart, but it will shine in the end!!

6 comments:

  1. I envy you this restoration! It looks beautiful in all it's worn out splendor...
    can't wait to see how you make her shine!

    ReplyDelete
  2. They don't make them like that anymore! So much beauty and character. Thanks for the pics. I can tell that I am going to be addicted to this blog!

    ReplyDelete
  3. We will enjoy watching the renovation!
    Nancy

    ReplyDelete
  4. We will enjoy watching the renovation. We drove by yesterday after seeing you at the mall. The house will be a great addition to the district. Karla

    ReplyDelete
  5. Wish you well in this journey. My husband and I did this. Yours remind me of our venture. It was built in 1896. We did the work ourselves and learned a lot and cherished the finding and touching the history. We lived there while doing it and would never recommend that! Now since our children have grown. We did another venture and built a log cabin from trees in our forest. Loving that.

    ReplyDelete