Stacie Grissom and Sean Wilson have embarked on an extraordinary journey by transforming a historic schoolhouse in Indiana into their family home. Originally built as a school for local children in the early 1900s, the 9,000-square-foot structure needed significant renovations after being converted into two separate apartments. The couple made the bold decision to purchase the property sight unseen, submitting an offer of $175,000 in August 2021 that was accepted within just 24 hours.
The schoolhouse, which boasts four bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms, became the couple's official residence in September 2024. The decision to buy was motivated by a desire to return to their hometown and be closer to family. Grissom expressed, “We had a reevaluation that it's the people who matter the most, so we wanted to move back to our hometown to be by our families.”
Financing this ambitious project was made possible through funds Grissom received when her company, Barkbox, went public in 2021. This financial backing enabled the couple not only to purchase the property outright but also to embark on an extensive renovation process.
Renovations included installing a new roof and fresh floors, as well as constructing a modern kitchen within the historic framework. The couple managed to salvage and refinish the original floors from one of the classrooms and restore some of the old doors, preserving elements of the school’s history. They also kept a vintage water fountain from the original building, which they are still working to restore.
Reflecting on their unique living situation, Grissom shared her astonishment at how their lives have unfolded. “I never thought this incredible building would be our home,” she noted. She added, “I still wake up some days and I'm like 'I can't believe we get to live here.'”
The couple's renovation journey has not come without its challenges. They estimated their renovation costs at around $26,000, while also taking into account ongoing expenses such as property taxes totaling approximately $4,200 annually and monthly utility bills of about $340 for electricity, water, and Wi-Fi.
Grissom's parents gave their approval after touring the schoolhouse, with her father humorously adding, “It's crazy, but I think you can figure it out.” Despite the daunting prospect of constant upkeep and unexpected issues arising from renovating an older building, Grissom sees the long-term project as a labor of love. “We knew going into this that this was going to be a lifelong project,” she stated.
Indeed, Grissom views the renovation as an ongoing adventure. “The project will never end and the problems will constantly pop up. That is daunting and also like it was part of the appeal, weirdly,” she explained.
The couple finds joy in reclaiming a piece of history while creating a home for their family. Their story reflects not only a commitment to restoring a historic building but also a dedication to building a life filled with memories in their hometown.
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