“Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.”
— Wolfgang Von Johann Goethe
When my husband, Micheal, first showed me this rundown building, I instantly knew this would be a huge challenge - but also a great adventure! Although looking back, this pic is perfect as the sign says ‘fasten seat belt’ and oh how perfect for our three year rehab journey!
Originally built in 1845 as a grist mill, the building had been chopped up over the years and was in complete disrepair (understatement of the year!). Designated a historic building, it couldn’t be torn down and we knew it would take a lot of TLC, vision and determination to bring it back to life.
Start from where you are … no matter how big or daunting your project may seem!
Sometimes things have to get worse before they can get better!
Be open to unexpected discoveries!
Original Grist Wheel
When tearing out the ceiling on the second floor we found these beautiful old beams!
Original Grist Mill Cistern
It’s important to hire good help!
Sophie, VP of Lunch and Snacks
Madam VP brought her buddy Gatsby to work - it was a long day!
Even the best team members make mistakes - especially when they're left alone (while we ran out to get lunch) and a popup thunderstorm strikes!
Remember to enjoy the journey - it’s a privilege to create your dream home! Don’t stress over every detail. Keep a sense of humor, be flexible and patient. What was once just a vision, comes to life! I hope you enjoy the slide show of the completed Grist Mill!
Main Entrance with Custom Wrought Iron Gate
Vestibule with Stairs Leading to Second Floor Living Space
Second Floor Foyer with Organic Plaster Walls and Colorwash
Second Floor Open Floor Plan with Original Exposed Beams and Venetian Plaster Walls
Second Floor Kitchen with Soapstone Countertops
Second Floor Kitchen/Dining Table and Island - both made with reclaimed wood from the original structure
Second Floor Living Room with Entertainment Built-Ins
Second Floor Archway into Butler's Pantry
Second Floor Butler's Pantry with Dishwasher and Washer and Dryer - Countertops are Made from Reclaimed Floorboards Found in the Attic
Second Floor Butler's Pantry Cabinets and Built-Ins for Storage
Second Floor - Guest Bath with Reclaimed Wood Wainscoting
Second Floor Guest Bedroom - Original Wood Ceiling and Faux Painted Grasscloth on Walls
Second Floor Master Bedroom with Original Wood Ceilings (Sanded Down and Sealed) and Custom Built-Ins
Second Floor Master Bath
Second Floor - Bookshelves Behind Master Bedroom Door for Extra Storage
First Floor Entrance to Art Studio - Organic Plaster Wall Finish with Charcoal Colorwash Throughout
First Floor Art Studio with Built-in Storage
First Floor Art Studio
First Floor Art Studio
First Floor Art Studio - with Vintage Dog Day Bed and Seating Area
First Floor Art Studio Storage and Bath
First Floor Art Studio French Doors Leading to Courtyard
First Floor Handicap Bath (per code for commercial building)
First Floor Yoga Room in Art Studio
First Floor Office Conference Room (Micheal's Side of the Building)
First Floor Micheal's Office and Bath - with Suede Finish on Walls
First Floor Mechanical Room with Workbench
Courtyard
Courtyard
Small Deck Off Art Studio with Handicap Ramp on Other Side (per code for commercial building)
Veranda - Entrance to Micheal's Office