The Bright House on Holloway

Bright indeed!

I had forgotten that the big yellow house on Holloway was named the Bright House in the original historic district research until I went to close out the tax credit application this week.  And it’s an appropriate name too, as the light streaming in those windows make the house so sunny and lovely.  The family decided to do most of the finishing touches themselves, so as of last week they moved in with lots to do.  My final photos barely convey the space, especially as it was a grey day when I showed up to snap pictures, but the homeowner’s blog has reams.  She’s kindly offered to let me snag some for here, so here’s a little sneak peak.

The dining room with a view into the living room - I love the beadboard ceilings that run through the front of the house.

The blog also does a great job of documenting all that they’ve been through – for those contemplating a massive remodel. I am really looking forward to visits in the future when they’ve buttoned up all the last bits – it’s beautiful already, and will certainly be gorgeous in the end!

The single original newel post left in the house has been reinstalled at the base of the stairs - matching newels were made and have been installed on the second floor.

508 Ottawa, Reborn

I’ve been waiting with such excitement to photograph this lovely house in Cleveland-Holloway, entirely redone over the past year.  The owners took a leap of faith with this one, as it was a beige, decrepit mess when they began.  Now it’s full of color, the liveliness of their three children, and gobs of light from the large windows.  Without further ado:

The two-tone color scheme delineates the original from the later second floor.

Before: the original front door lead to a solid wall and stairs to the upstairs unit.

Now the front door leads to a stair hall and views straight through to the kitchen and sunroom.

and this will fill space. ,

but it needs to be longer,
and longer still.

Oh, how much color helps.  The original sidelight was kept in place, and a new front door installed to match.

Fun modern light fixtures + early 20th century mantles = fun!

All the main rooms now connect through wide doorways - and have their original, beaded board ceilings.

The kitchen opens to a breakfast nook and to the back sunroom.

This house has great bones – and it was a fantastic puzzle to put back into working order.  The combination of modern and classic, spare and colorful – that’s exactly the sort of thing I would pick out for myself.  The homeowners did all that part by themselves, so I can’t claim any credit, just share my appreciation!

More photos are in the gallery below, including the second floor.  Apologies for the repeat photos, it’s a fight I fought and lost with wordpress…

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Sneak Peak

In the final stretch of finish

The owners of the Purple Castle (1106 Alabama Ave.) are kindly offering their house up for a tour on this coming Thursday evening, Dec. 1, 5-7pm.  I’ll be on hand to answer questions about tax credits, and there’s a suggested $5 entry fee – a donation to Preservation Durham.  Come and visit!