Historic Church Transformed into Modern Family Home

News Summary

A historic church in Detroit’s Indian Village neighborhood is set to undergo a remarkable transformation into a modern dream home. Rachel Nelson and Joe Trobaugh have purchased the former St. Luke’s Church for $390,600, planning a $600,000 renovation that blends contemporary design with the building’s historic charm. The project, named ‘Divinely Detroit’, includes modern amenities while keeping the church’s architectural integrity. An open house on February 4 will allow the community to view the renovation progress and support a local charity.

Historic Detroit Church Set for Innovative Transformation into Modern Dream Home

In an exciting twist for the vibrant neighborhood of Indian Village in Detroit, a charming historic church is soon to be transformed into an extraordinary dream home. Nestled at 1815 Seminole, this storied 4,000-square-foot building, which was once known as St. Luke’s Evangelical Lutheran Church and later Mount Olive East Missionary Baptist Church, is finally shedding its vacant status after sitting empty for 15 years.

A New Chapter for an Old Structure

The couple behind this ambitious project, Rachel Nelson and Joe Trobaugh, purchased the church from the Detroit Land Bank Authority for $390,600. Initially, Rachel toyed with the idea of using the building as office space. However, as they explored the potential of the structure, the couple couldn’t resist the vision of making it their family home while maintaining its historic charm.

The “Divinely Detroit” Project

Set to begin in the coming weeks, renovation efforts will kick off under the project’s fitting name, “Divinely Detroit”. With an estimated cost of $600,000, this endeavor aims to breathe new life into the historic architecture, merging modern design with the church’s original features.

Excitingly, their future abode will boast four spacious bedrooms, a generous living area, and ample bathing options with three full bathrooms and a half bathroom. A striking double staircase will gracefully lead up to a second floor, which is envisioned as a dedicated space for meditation and a library. Imagine sipping your morning coffee there, surrounded by serenity and beautiful stained-glass windows!

Modern Innovations and Historic Integrity

The transformation will also include a flat roof on the northwest corner, designed to house a three-car garage and an inviting rooftop deck. Given that the church currently lacks any existing plumbing or electrical systems, the creative team is excited to design these modern necessities entirely from scratch within the beautiful, historic shell.

Recent improvements have already set the stage for this renovation dream, including a newly installed roof and gutters, ensuring that the property is structurally sound and ready for the changes ahead.

A Stellar Team Behind the Scenes

Rachel and Joe have engaged a stellar project team to carry this vision forward. Concetti is on board for innovative design strategies, while 4545 Architecture will navigate the important territory of historic approvals and structural concerns. The reputable Milton Roberts Company will act as the general contractor, ensuring that every detail is perfect.

Rachel describes this renovation as a one-of-a-kind opportunity to blend modern functionality with the church’s historic charm, resulting in a unique living space that holds on to its roots while embracing contemporary comforts.

A Community Celebration

Living in Grosse Pointe Woods, Rachel and Joe have long admired the stunning homes scattered throughout Indian Village, a neighborhood rich with history dating back to the late 1800s. They are excited to take part in the area’s community spirit, especially with an open house event planned for February 4. During this celebration, community members will have the unique opportunity to view the church, and all that is required for attendance is a donation to the Detroit Dog Rescue.

As this remarkable transformation unfolds, expect to see a perfect blend of past and future emerge right here in Detroit. The “Divinely Detroit” project is sure to inspire not only those who live nearby but anyone with a love for historic buildings and innovative renovations.

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Additional Resources

• Detroit Free Press: Historic Detroit Church Set for Innovative Transformation
• WXYZ: Meet the Detroit Couple Transforming a Vacant Church into a Home
• Detroit Catholic: Former School to be Transformed into Supportive Housing
• Archinect: Transforming a Former Church into a Cultural Center
• Wikipedia: Church Architecture