This Couple Struck Gold When They Decided to Restore Their Plaster Walls

Julie and Eddie Flores, a couple residing in Kansas City with their three children, embarked on an unexpected journey to acquire and renovate a historic Dutch Colonial house in Julie's hometown of Lincoln, Kansas. Their endeavor began in January 2022 when Julie's parents urged them to visit a neglected 2,023-square-foot, three-bedroom Dutch Colonial property that had been vacant for nearly a decade. Despite its dilapidated exterior, characterized by a collapsing porch, chipping lime-green paint, and a roof hole frequented by squirrels, the couple was captivated by the interior's original features, including hardwood floors hidden under carpets and an appealing staircase. They immediately recognized the house's potential as their "forever home." Initially, the Floreses had no plans to leave Kansas City, but the allure of the Lincoln house persisted. They learned that the property, situated on land owned by the Lincoln County Hospital & Healthcare Foundation (LCHHF), faced demolition if a new owner wasn't found within a year. The LCHHF, in conjunction with the Lincoln Economic Development Foundation (LCEDF), offered the house for free under the condition that the new owners would relocate the entire structure within Lincoln and reside in it themselves, thereby preserving its historical value and preventing it from being flipped for profit. The house, built in 1910, was once home to W.J. Grubbs, an early mayor of the town. The Floreses successfully bid for the house, receiving it via a "bill of sale" that formalized their ownership without any monetary exchange. Their motivation was rooted in a belief in repairing rather than discarding, a value instilled in Julie from her upbringing on a farm. Following their acquisition, the couple initiated extensive renovations, documented on their Instagram and blog, "Nursing Back to Life." Early tasks included replacing the roof, clearing the basement, and dismantling the porches to prepare for relocation. During the gutting process, they uncovered various historical artifacts, such as old playing cards, coins, and a concrete slab with children's handprints from 1973, which they decided to preserve and move with the house. However, they also encountered less pleasant discoveries, including a cockroach infestation within the insulation. Simultaneously, the Floreses purchased a 3-acre plot of land from Julie's father, two miles from the original site, for the construction of a new basement. This phase proved challenging due to issues with an initial contractor, leading them to hire a different company. In January, the house was moved by Unruh House Moving for approximately $40,000. The relocation involved complex maneuvers, such as lifting the house onto steel beams after the existing foundation was partially removed. The two-mile journey took two hours, with the house carefully navigated past obstacles, a testament to its robust construction. The event drew local spectators, turning the move into a community parade. With the house successfully relocated, the Floreses are now focusing on completing the renovations, a task complicated by their three children and Eddie's job as a traveling nurse. They are currently residing in Julie's parents' home, dedicating their available time to the project. To date, they have invested around $95,000, including the moving costs. Beyond creating their "forever home," the couple views this project as an opportunity to support the local economy and foster community pride in Lincoln, a town struggling with an aging population and economic decline. They aim to collaborate with local businesses for specialized work and hope to move into their renovated home by Thanksgiving. #HomeRenovation #HouseRelocation #DutchColonial #LincolnKansas #CommunityRevitalization #HistoricPreservation #DIYRenovation #FamilyProject #RealEstate #AffordableHousing

Debbie and Worth Brooks, a couple with backgrounds in healthcare and a shared passion for gardening and older homes, met in 2013 and married in 2017. They purchased a circa-1919 bungalow in Ardmore, a neighborhood right around the corner from where Worth grew up. Despite the house and yard requiring significant work, Debbie, originally from South Florida, recognized the property's potential. The primary bedroom's windows were a key selling point for her, and this space became the focus of the first phase of their home's renovation, aiming to create a private retreat. With the assistance of Harvest Luxury Builders, the couple transformed a bedroom adjacent to the primary bedroom into a luxurious shower and bath, creating a spa-like experience and a spacious en suite. Both Debbie, an avid amateur endurance athlete who has run 13 marathons including New York, Chicago, and Boston (for which she qualified at age 60), and Worth, who enjoys the gym and strength training, found the therapeutic benefits of their new luxury bathroom indispensable for their fitness routines. The luxury shower and bath also proved practical for two healthcare professionals who decided to take on the demanding task of landscaping their yard themselves. On the day they bought the house, the yard was cluttered with discarded motors and automotive parts. Debbie recalled the extensive effort required, stating, "We had to excavate a lot of dying trees and buried pieces of driveway from a former dilapidated garage." She estimated that she and Worth completed up to 90% of the landscaping work personally, making the spa-like experience of their new bath even more well-deserved. In the spring of 2022, Debbie's sister-in-law encouraged them to expand the kitchen. Debbie noted that while they only increased the kitchen's size by 64 square feet, it made a significant difference. Following the removal of a support wall and the relocation of the laundry room to the back of the house, a red oak beam now spans the expanded kitchen space. Original heart pine planks were revealed in the ceiling, contributing to a modern farmhouse aesthetic. A leathered granite countertop, formerly a space for folding clothes, became a favorite food preparation area. Debbie expressed her satisfaction with the renovation, highlighting that the back door now opens directly onto their deck, eliminating the need to walk through the old laundry room. She also appreciated the new location of the washer and dryer in a closet just outside the primary bedroom. The second phase of renovations addressed a rotting front porch that wrapped around the corner of the house. The Brooks opted for large cedar posts and lined the entire porch with cedar. They also re-did the porch floor with composite decking, significantly extending its lifespan. Just over six months after these changes, Debbie and Worth were delighted with their home's transformation, crediting Todd and Robin Aron with Harvest Luxury Builders for their hard work, stating, "We can't thank them enough. Not anyone can renovate these old homes." Despite the significant interior remodeling, much of which is hidden from view, the couple's sustained efforts on the exterior have attracted attention from passersby and the Winston-Salem Garden Council. The Garden Council recently requested that the Brooks' home and yard be considered for Forsyth County's Bird Friendly Habitat Certification Program. Debbie views this as a positive start and is working to gather historical documentation about the house. She hopes their private paradise will one day earn the certification, reflecting their dedication to both their home and its natural surroundings. #HomeRenovation #CraftsmanBungalow #ArdmoreNeighborhood #HomeImprovement #LuxuryBathroom #KitchenExpansion #Landscaping #HistoricHomes #WinstonSalem

Plaster, an ancient building material composed of lime, sand, and sometimes fibers, has been utilized for centuries, adorning structures from ancient Egyptian pyramids to Greek temples. Despite its susceptibility to cracks and bubbles, plaster remains a durable and aesthetically pleasing wall coating. Its popularity peaked in the early 1900s, featuring prominently in historical homes built before World War II, prior to the widespread adoption of drywall panels in the 1950s. Today, plaster is experiencing a resurgence, appreciated for its beautiful texture that adds depth, interesting highlights, and a sculptural effect to rooms. This renewed interest is fueled by technological advancements in plaster variations and its eco-friendly properties. Modern homeowners and designers are increasingly turning to plaster to infuse artistic flair into their wall spaces, with a wide array of color palettes and texture options available, akin to paint colors. Various types of plaster exist, including tadelakt, slaked lime, and Venetian plaster. While gypsum and other cement-based plasters are more affordable, they necessitate professional application and may not be suitable for all surfaces. Venetian plaster, though higher in price, offers stunning visual effects. Clay-based plasters, while softer, are not recommended for wet areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Proper care is crucial to prevent significant and costly plaster repair. This guide provides five key tips to minimize damage and maintain plaster walls. First, it is essential to recognize the signs of damage. Cracks appearing near door openings, wrapped doorways, hallways, beams, or corners typically indicate stress cracks due to foundation or structural shifting. Water damage, often caused by leaky roofs or pipes, manifests as separation of plaster from the lath, forming bulges, or in plaster-over-drywall applications, as soft areas with brown-tinted stains. Ideally, such defects should be repaired by a professional specializing in the specific type of plaster, as repairs are usually visible unless the entire wall is skim coated. Second, promptly repairing cracks is vital. Unlike drywall cracks, filling hairline cracks in plaster is not straightforward, as sealing agents often bubble up. A more involved trenching process is required: the crack should be cut out deep enough to reach the substrate using a utility knife held at a 90-degree angle, creating a V-shaped trench. Before beginning, it is crucial to ensure proper ventilation with a box fan and a MERV 13 or HEPA filter, and to wear a dust mask, gloves, and safety glasses, as historical plaster may contain harmful components. Children and individuals with respiratory issues should avoid the area. After trenching, a fast-drying patching compound, such as USG Easy Sand 45, is applied to fill the cracks flush, allowed to dry and shrink. Mesh tape is then placed over the repaired area, followed by a thin coat of joint compound or the patching compound. Once dry, the exterior side of the tape is feather-coated approximately six inches wide using a putty knife, ensuring it is flush with the tape and wall. Any heavy pieces are removed before the final coat. The key is to apply thin coats, as adding more compound is easier than sanding. The final thin coat is sanded as needed once dry. Third, correctly hanging art and shelves is paramount. Plaster walls can be challenging for hanging objects due to the bounce-back effect from the underlying lath, which can cause significant wall damage or paint bubbling. To prevent this, an anchor-and-screw system is recommended for heavy items, with molly bolts or toggle bolts providing superior support. Locating a stud using a stud finder is also advisable. Pre-drilling is essential when using nails, with a drill bit 1/32-inch to 1/16-inch smaller than the nail. The drill bit should be angled at 45 degrees, and the nail gently drilled in. A small amount of caulk or construction adhesive can be applied to the hole to secure the nail, allowing it to dry before hanging. Alternatively, utilizing existing picture molding or installing a modern wire system can avoid nailing into plaster altogether. Fourth, regular touch-ups can extend the life of plaster walls. If plaster is in good condition but has a shiny, cracked appearance, repainting with a matte finish paint can minimize defects. Before repainting, it is important to determine the existing paint type; if oil-based, an appropriate primer is necessary before applying water-based paint. Finally, careful cleaning is crucial. Plaster walls should be cleaned delicately due to their texture and susceptibility to cracking. Vacuuming with a dust-brush attachment is the first step. For dirtier areas, a warm, damp cloth with a mix of water and dish soap can be used, taking care not to scrub vigorously to avoid damaging the texture or finish. #PlasterWalls #HomeMaintenance #WallRepair #InteriorDesign #DIYHomeImprovement #HistoricHomes #WallFinishes #CrackRepair #HomeCare

This article highlights the importance of preserving historic buildings in Richmond, Virginia, which has structures dating back to 1737. Many of these buildings, despite being well-built, require specialized care to maintain their integrity and extend their lifespan. The article presents a curated list of skilled tradespeople in the Richmond area who are experts in historic construction practices, ensuring that these vintage properties can stand for another century. One of the featured professionals is Karnage Construction LLC, a Class A-licensed general contractor. Owned by Mo Karnage, a fourth-generation enthusiast of old houses, the company excels in both modern and historic construction projects. Karnage Construction specializes in historic tax credit projects and those overseen by architectural review boards. Mo Karnage's deep understanding of traditional building methods, coupled with a practical approach, helps clients achieve their renovation goals, whether it involves restoring a historic front porch or undertaking a full-house renovation, ensuring the work aligns with historical accuracy and client expectations. DeAndre Friend, a third-generation master plasterer, is another expert highlighted. He learned the art of plastering from his father, Wesley Friend Jr., who in turn was taught by his own father. DeAndre Friend is passionate about his craft and continuously seeks to expand his knowledge of historic plastering techniques. His expertise includes building and repairing plaster walls and cornices in notable historic homes, such as the McIlwaine and Battersea houses in Petersburg, and the midcentury 5100 Monument Avenue building in Richmond. His work extends to private residences across Central Virginia and as far as Baltimore, showcasing his wide-ranging experience and skill in preserving intricate plasterwork. Dug Campbell, the proprietor of Dugwood Turners, is a specialist in wood turning. He began his career in the late 1970s, crafting woodwork for The Tobacco Company Restaurant. Campbell is a trusted resource for local contractors and lumber companies, including Siewers Lumber & Millwork, providing custom wooden elements. His work encompasses a variety of architectural details, from porch balustrades and newel posts to finials and chair spindles. His craftsmanship can be seen on historic porches and staircases in prominent Richmond neighborhoods such as Monument Avenue, Oregon Hill, Church Hill, and even the Governor’s Mansion, demonstrating his contribution to maintaining the city's architectural heritage. The article also introduces two experts from Old House Authority focusing on historic windows. Dixon Kerr specializes in window restoration, a crucial aspect for historic buildings, particularly for projects seeking historic tax credits. Kerr meticulously restores, rebuilds, and reglazes historic windows, addressing sashes, glass, frames, pulleys, ropes, and hardware. He employs labor-intensive, age-old techniques, making sure to reuse all original components, including historic glass. He also maintains a stock of old glass to replace broken or missing panes, ensuring authenticity. Walter Dotts, also from Old House Authority, serves as a storm window consultant. He advises on low-profile and flush-mounted secondary glazing systems that offer modern thermal protection and elemental defense without detracting from the historic aesthetic of a building. These approved systems are essential for historic districts and buildings, helping owners select appropriate storm windows that blend seamlessly with the facade while providing updated functionality. These professionals collectively contribute to the preservation of Richmond’s historic architecture through their specialized skills and dedication. #HistoricHomeRestoration #RichmondArtisans #GeneralContractor #PlasterArtisan #WoodTurner #WindowRestoration #StormWindowConsultant #HistoricBuildingTrades

Erika and Robert Gates, avid collectors of vintage items and passionate preservationists, acquired a 1929 Mediterranean Revival-style raised-basement house in the Parkview Historic District of New Orleans. Their search for a new home began after they outgrew their renovated Arts-and-Crafts raised double shotgun. They initially encountered the North Carrollton Avenue property during an estate sale in March 2021, treating it as an open house despite it not being officially on the market. Erika’s curiosity was piqued by a photograph of the kitchen in the estate sale's email, which showcased its unique 1950s-era yellow countertops with metal trim, pale-blue cabinets with curved drawers, yellow-and-blue speckled wall tiles, and original patterned tile flooring. During a second visit to the estate sale, Erika, who was eight months pregnant, explored the house further, discovering incredibly colorful original bathrooms. These bathrooms featured original floors and wall tiles in shades of pink, mint green, and orchid purple, accented by narrow bands of decorative tile. They also contained original pink pedestal sinks, pink wall heaters, and a pink tub in the primary bathroom. Erika noted that these fixtures were 1929 Standard Company, marking the first year colored fixtures were produced. The bathrooms also retained intact mirrored medicine cabinets, painted wood storage cabinets with laundry chutes, and windowpanes with opaque glass for privacy. The house's original layout, suitable for a family, and its proximity to the Carrollton streetcar line and City Park were significant attractions for the Gates. When the three-bedroom, two-bath house officially became available a week after the estate sale, they made an offer on the same day. The Gates and their two sons, Henry (6) and Walter (2), are the fifth family to inhabit the home. Built in 1929 by contractor William Badeaux for Charles and Helen Ramos at a cost of $20,000, it was considered a high-end, middle-class residence for its time. The Ramos family's tenure was brief, and by 1932, the house was listed for rent. It then became the home of Ford plant manager Eugene Stolz and his family. In 1940, Ruth Furlong, a 1920s silent film star and investor, purchased the property for $13,000. She lived there with her parents until their deaths in 1945 and 1953. Upon her passing in 1986, her nephew, Army Lt. Col. William Furlong, inherited the house, residing there until his death in 2020. The previous owners’ minimal alterations and preservation of original elements greatly facilitated the Gates’ restoration efforts. The Gates have diligently worked to restore and repair many of the home’s original features. To accommodate their young children, they converted a section of a hallway storage closet into a main-floor laundry area, which involved relocating HVAC equipment to the attic and creating space for a stackable washer and dryer. Patched floors resulting from this project were covered with a 1930s-era linoleum rug salvaged from another renovated Uptown house. The rest of the house's layout has been preserved, reflecting Erika Gates' appreciation for the period's modern house designs, characterized by features such as updated closets, central kitchens, and more open living spaces. The solarium, a notable feature, retains its original arched casement windows, offering views of City Park. Art Deco-style chandeliers, brought from the Gates’ previous residence, now illuminate the living and dining rooms, complementing the original ceiling medallions. The walls, once pink, have been repainted in period-appropriate colors to enhance the 1920s and 1930s aesthetic. The dining room connects to a hallway leading to bedrooms and bathrooms, and also to the kitchen, which still houses a functional 1950s refrigerator. A breakfast room behind the kitchen includes three original built-in cabinets. Further improvements made by the couple include updating the electrical wiring and removing outdated technology, nonoriginal ironwork, and hurricane shutters from the front façade. The removal of the shutters revealed the original awning hardware, which the couple plans to restore in the future. The Gates undertake much of the restoration work themselves, balancing these projects with the demands of raising small children. This restoration project highlights their dedication to preserving the historic architecture and cultural identity of New Orleans. The Preservation Resource Center, a nonprofit focused on these efforts, reported this story. #NewOrleans #HomeRestoration #HistoricPreservation #MediterraneanRevival #VintageDecor #ArtDeco #1920sArchitecture #PeriodAccurate #Renovation