In an inspiring story of vision and creativity, a couple has captured the hearts of thousands on social media by transforming an abandoned schoolhouse into their dream family home. Located in their hometown, the dilapidated building, which was once an eyesore and symbol of neglect, has been given a new lease on life through their tireless efforts.
From the initial stages of clearing debris and restoring the building’s structural integrity to the final touches that have turned the structure into a cozy and functional space for their family of four, the couple’s journey has been a rollercoaster of challenges and triumphs which they have meticulously documented via their TikTok page.
New York couple shares how they bought old school, which they turned into a family home
@schoolhousehomestead Been getting some comments and DMs from folks asking, “How in the heck do you just buy a school?!” The weird answer is, just the regular way through a realtor. So SO many of the schools from this era have been torn down, and I’m so thankful ours is still here. It has not been easy and we never would have had the courage to take this on if it weren’t for my dad. In his career working for the state parks and in commercial real estate, my dad has a scrappy, tireless wisdom for fixing stuff… and he also knows some incredible contractors who know how to get big jobs done. More details and stuff on the u tube! #oldhousesoftiktok #fyp #weirdhouse ♬ original sound – Schoolhousehomestead
In a discussion with PEOPLE, the wife Stacie revealed that during the height of the pandemic, she and her husband found themselves reevaluating their lives and considering a major change, prompting them to consider moving back to their hometown of Franklin, Indiana. As they began discussing the possibility, a historic schoolhouse which they had both admired since childhood went up for sale.
Despite not being able to view the property in person due to the pandemic, Stacie’s parents stepped in to tour the home on their behalf. However, to her surprise, her father, who she expected to discourage the idea, encouraged them, expressing confidence in their ability to make it work.
Schoolhouse Homestead
Stacie recounted the arduous journey of transforming the building into their family home. The structure, which had not functioned as a school since the 1930s, was purchased in August 2021. Upon acquisition of the property, she and her family were astonished to discover that the foundation remained incredibly strong despite its age.
They began a comprehensive overhaul of the old schoolhouse, and over the course of three years, they completed the renovations and moved into their new space by September 2024. Although the building’s age meant there was still lots of work to be done, she noted that her husband Sean and their two children have eagerly settled into their new home.