433 Waverly was more than just another renovation—it was a passion project. Originally built in 1849 as a carriage house, it had become a garage, then a rundown student rental, stripped of its charm and filled with cheap materials, drop ceilings, and neglect. The previous owner had used it for storage, leaving it in complete disrepair. But beneath the mess, I saw potential.

The biggest challenge wasn’t just cosmetic—it was structural. Decades of improper modifications had left the building unstable. During demolition, we discovered severe engineering issues, requiring the entire structure to be reinforced. Thanks to a skilled team of Yemeni ironworkers, we rebuilt the skeleton of the home at half the cost, jacking up the house, replacing beams, and stabilizing walls.

For the design, I aimed to blend rustic barn charm with eclectic, high-end details. I sourced 19th-century panel doors from an old school in Red Hook, added stunning kitchens and baths, and layered in warm textures. The only regret? The bamboo floors, which didn’t wear well.

In the end, 433 Waverly was a true labor of love—a forgotten gem restored to its former glory. And it paid off, both in beauty and in value.