The Living Room needed a lot of work. It was covered in over-done resawn wood designs and there were no walls behind those, just insulation. The walls that did exist had not been painted in 40 years and were oil-based.

There was also a misplaced closet. Some mismatched old oak wainscot needed removing from the adjoining dining area too.

All the walls required new dry wall. It took 13 BOXES OF MUD to float them before we could even begin to paint.

Now the living area is fresh and bright, and the design is symmetrical for a much cleaner, more modern look. But it still holds the charm of a 1978 ranch-style home—best of both worlds—and that was the goal.

The fireplace is next. But we’re taking our time now, enjoying our woodsy lodge, and finally having space between neighbors.

I really didn’t want to take on this level of renovation when we were looking for a fixer. But when we found this property, it checked all the boxes, and felt like home.

Thankfully, my son and I were able to do most of the work ourselves, and it was a great opportunity for him to continue learning the trades, which he’s entered now after growing up on job-sites, and working on back-to-back home renovations to help get us here.

I’m glad we got to do this together.