The Edwards family, owners of a historic Georgian Colonial home built in 1896 in Newtown Square, Pennsylvania, undertook an extensive nine-month restoration of their new house. For the final three months, they and their children lived in the attic of the house while the rest of the renovation proceeded below. This report outlines the background, scope of restoration, challenges, outcomes, and key insights from their experience.
- Background
Location & Property:
A 5,500 sq ft, three-story Georgian Colonial house built in 1896, situated on three acres in Newtown Square, PA.
Family & Expertise:
The owners are Joel (construction) and Erica Edwards (design), each with relevant professional experience. They have three young children: ages approx. 12, 10, and 7.
Motivation for Purchase & Restoration:
Having lived in a rowhouse in Fishtown, the family sought more space in the suburbs and were drawn to the character of older homes. They saw this property both for its restoration potential and as a long-term family home.
- Project Scope & Timeline
Phase Duration Activities / Where They Lived
Initial 6 months ~6 months Restoration with the family living in a nearby rental property.
Final 3 months ~3 months Moved into the attic of the house while finishing the remaining restoration work in the rest of the home. The entire family plus rescue dog lived in the attic during this period.
- Restoration Details
A. Preservation + Updating
Emphasis was placed on retaining historic features wherever possible: millwork, windows, roof lines, original doors, etc.
The front porch’s colonial columns and hand-carved corbels were restored.
Original materials like mahogany moldings and frames were matched. Curved window frames were custom-made.
B. Modern Enhancements
Added modern amenities: air conditioning, upgraded roofing and windows, installation of gas line.
Created new outdoor living space (deck at the back).
- Challenges & Living Conditions
Physical / Emotional Strain:
Living on a construction site (even just in the attic) was “very physically, mentally, and emotionally challenging.”
Space and Privacy Constraints:
The attic, although inhabitable, would have been small relative to the whole house, with limited amenities until the rest of the house was completed.
Logistics:
Managing everyday living (cooking, bathing, sleeping, school/work routines) while also overseeing restoration work elsewhere in the house
- Outcomes
The renovated home now blends historic character with modern comforts, suitable for a growing family.
The attic period allowed the family to transition into the home before full completion, which maybe helped with oversight and gradual move-in.
Emotional payoff: the family values the restored details (e.g. original signed signatures of workers, restored craftsmanship) and the home appears now well adapted for their family’s lifestyle.