Danielle and Kreg Jones, a couple with a passion for historic architecture and home renovation, turned a 19th-century schoolhouse into their family home. In 2021, after five years of searching, they found the North Weare Schoolhouse in New Hampshire. The building, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, had a rich history, having served as a school until 1952 and later as a town meeting space. The couple, who run their architecture firm, Inscription Architects, offered $210,000 for the property and began the renovation alongside their son, aiming to pass down Kreg’s hands-on skills. The project took eight months and $220,000 to complete, transforming the schoolhouse into a three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom home while preserving much of its original character, including the floors, stairways, and even historic carvings left by schoolchildren.
Throughout the renovation, the Jones family remained dedicated to honoring the building’s historic charm while adding personal touches. The home’s large windows, which originally provided light before electricity was available, continue to flood the space with natural light, creating a connection to the outdoors. Despite their history of moving after completing projects, the Joneses feel content in their renovated schoolhouse, describing the space as comfortable and well-proportioned. For them, the process wasn’t just about creating a home but also a shared learning experience with their son. They’ve lived in the house for over three years, with no immediate plans for a new project, enjoying the fruits of their labor in a space that uniquely blends history and modern living.
