Saving Time by Saving History
Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Ila, Georgia, stood an old farmhouse that had been a cherished home to one family for over 80 years. Time had taken its toll, but the structure’s bones held promise and countless memories. Recognizing its potential, we embarked on a meticulous restoration project to breathe new life into this piece of local history.
The restoration process was nothing short of a labor of love. Each board was carefully removed, cleaned, and inspected. Those too damaged or rotten to salvage were respectfully replaced, maintaining the home’s authentic character. As layers of modern additions were peeled away, hidden treasures emerged. Beneath garish 1970s paneling, beautiful heart pine shiplap walls were uncovered, whispering tales of craftsmanship from a bygone era.
The flooring presented its own archaeological adventure. Five or six layers deep, each told a story of changing tastes and times. In on room, a linoleum “rug” was discovered, its pattern barely discernible through the holes left by years of use and subsequent coverings. Perhaps most intriguing were the newspapers used as insulation, their yellowed pages dating back to Roosevelt’s presidency, offering glimpses into the daily lives and concerns of past generations.
Every surface in the farmhouse received loving attention. Original features were painstakingly restored wherever possible, while necessary modern updates were seamlessly integrated to ensure the home’s functionality for years to come. Throughout the process, we worked with reverence for the house’s history and the memories it held.
When the restoration was complete, the family who had called this place home for eight decades came to visit. As they walked through the rooms, emotions ran high. The familiar bones of their ancestral home were there, but now polished and renewed. Words like “stunning,” “Beautiful,” and “simply gorgeous” fell from their lips as they took in the transformation.
The old farmhouse, once weathered and worn, now stood proud again in the Ila countryside. Its restored beauty bridged past and present, honoring the legacy of those who had lived within its walls while preparing it for a new chapter of history. The project served as a testament to the power of preservation and the enduring allure of rural Georgia’s architectural heritage.
