#historic conversion

Well, look at what I just found- the “architecture shame” house is on the market! It’s in Ellijay, Georgia, has 3bd. 3ba. and is listed for $1.550M.

With shutters painted a lovely duck-egg blue and climbing vines framing the external windows, this house is perhaps more reminiscent of the French countryside than a traditional London mews. Originally a stable, it was converted with sensitivity and attention to the original character.

Finally, a conversion that wasn’t bastardized to look so modern, it’s unrecognizable. If I’m in the market for a former historic stable, I want it to look like a former stable.

They gave it wonderful pops of color like the turquoise wall and red lamps.

The kitchen is modern but is still reminiscent of an old country farmhouse. For a backsplash, they just painted the exposed brick white.

All of the original beams are still in place. The owner commissioned  a metalworker and carpenter to do the stairs and upper levels. I love the wall of storage.

They’ve incorporated some midcentury modern pieces against the turquoise wall.

To brighten the old brick walls, a whitewash was chosen.

They left the center of the structure open, so that the first floor can be seen from the mezzanine and catwalk.

The owners also have a  a small study on this level, for working from home.

There is a bedroom in each direction found in the eaves at each end of the house.

This appears to be some sort of a pulley system for conveying things from one side to the other.

Compact bedroom with a newly installed skylight for natural sunlight.

Love the bathroom- they chose a modern floor tile that ties in beautifully.

In the back is a lovely private courtyard.

What the Norwood Park Senior Project IncludesAt the site, the Norwood Park senior project combines a new 7,044-square-foot satellite center with the rehabilitation and expansion of the former Passionist Brothers Monastery into 84 rental units for older residents.The housing component retains 30 apartments in the existing monastery and adds 54 new units, with studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts.Facilities and ServicesThe $24 million development also includes on-site dining, a library, a fitness center, gardens, walking paths, and a computer classroom. The satellite center is planned to offer hot meals, health screenings, fitness classes, and computer classes for seniors.Regular health screenings, fitness classes, emergency pull cords, and monthly housekeeping are part of the residential environment. The project also arrives amid broader local discussions about community input and how new development fits neighborhood priorities.Access and ProgrammingCommunity integration is supported through planned social activities, community programming, and weekday center operations.Transportation access includes weekly grocery store trips. Separate addresses on Harlem Avenue and Natoma Avenue organize housing and senior center functions.Who the Norwood Park Senior Rentals ServeEligibility is for older adults age 62 and above who meet income limits set between 30 percent and 60 percent of the Area Median Income.This senior-only community serves independent older Chicago residents, especially those from Norwood Park, who are seeking housing between public assistance and market-rate options.Income verification is required, and low-income applicants must fall within the affordable income tiers.GroupStandardAge62 and olderIncome30 percent to 60 percent AMIResidents are generally single seniors or partners, since studio and one-bedroom homes make up most of the property.Two-bedroom units can support seniors who need extra room or shared living with an eligible older partner.Younger family members and unrelated caregivers do not qualify as residents under the age-based rules.The target population is older adults seeking supported independent living, not nursing care.Amenities in the Norwood Park Senior CommunityBeyond age and income qualifications, the Norwood Park senior community is defined by amenities that support independence while helping reduce daily risk.Residents benefit from on-site medical assistance, medication management, nursing care, and a 24-hour call system.These features help shape daily life around stability rather than crisis.Like Seattle’s Birch Grove, the project reflects community engagement around accessible housing needs.Key Features Shaping RoutineImmediate-response safety coverage through the round-the-clock call system.Structured health programs and care services that support changing medical needs.Access to community gardens and nearby park district resources for outdoor activity.Monthly independent living costs begin at $1,059, well below the Chicago area average of $4,825.That pricing helps support an independent lifestyle with added peace of mind.The broader community layout also emphasizes health, well-being, and neighborhood connection in the heart of Norwood Park.How the Monastery Conversion Preserves HistoryThrough a tightly controlled restoration process, the monastery conversion retains the building’s defining historic fabric while adapting it for senior rentals.Original 1890s stone walls, 1920s brick archways, and Gothic Revival exterior details remain intact. Wooden floor beams continue supporting units, while lead-lined copper roofing and west-wall buttresses are repaired without altering appearance.Interior Heritage PreservedInside, high vaulted ceilings, marble staircases, ornate plaster moldings, and hand-carved door frames are conserved rather than replaced. Stained glass from the chapel is restored and moved to lounges, supporting architectural storytelling through visible continuity.Religious