Danielle and Kreg Jones, owners of Inscription Architects based in New Hampshire, decided to take on a project with their son after he graduated high school. The couple had a history of renovating homes together and wanted their son to learn how to build and fix things around the house. After moving from Montana to New Hampshire in 2016, it took them almost five years to find their permanent home. They stumbled upon a historic 19th-century schoolhouse in Weare, New Hampshire which was listed for sale as a commercial property but had recently changed to residential.
The North Weare Schoolhouse, built in 1856, was a public school until 1952 and later used as a town meeting place. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. The couple made an offer of $210,000 which was accepted, and they took possession of the abandoned schoolhouse in March 2021. The Jones’ saw the potential in the schoolhouse structure with its high ceilings, large windows, and architecturally proportioned design. They spent $220,000 and eight months transforming the space into a three-bedroom, two-and-a-half bathroom home while preserving many of the original details.
The renovation project was special for the Jones family as they worked alongside their son, teaching and training him in the process. They aimed to maintain the historical integrity of the property by preserving original features like floors, ceilings, chalk rails, stairway, doors, and even a wall with the names of school children carved into it. At the same time, they added colorful and fun elements to the design. The couple repurposed antique doors to construct a bed and created a space that was respectful of the building’s history.
Now living in the converted schoolhouse for over three years, Danielle appreciates the natural light that floods the living space. The couple has lived in the house for an extended period, breaking their previous pattern of moving every couple of years. Kreg and Danielle feel content in their current home and are not looking to move on to another project just yet. They are open to new opportunities that may come their way, but for now, they are enjoying the unique and historic space they have created for themselves.
The renovation project taught Danielle the value of trying new things and not being afraid of what others might think. The couple’s approach to projects is to embrace new challenges and opportunities as they arise. While there are no concrete plans for future projects, they are open to possibilities that may present themselves. Their experience with the schoolhouse renovation has been rewarding both personally and professionally, showcasing their ability to transform historic spaces into modern and functional homes.
In conclusion, the Jones family’s journey with the North Weare Schoolhouse reflects their passion for historic architecture and dedication to creating unique and personalized living spaces. Through their collaborative efforts, they have successfully transformed a neglected building into a welcoming home for their family. The project not only honed their skills as architects and renovators but also strengthened their family bond by involving their son in the process. The Joneses’ story serves as an inspiration for those looking to embark on similar renovation projects, highlighting the rewards of preserving history while incorporating modern design elements.
