Renovation of Abandoned Church into Family Home

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Renovation of an abandoned church in Detroit into a family home

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News Summary

A once-abandoned church in Detroit is undergoing a remarkable transformation into a family home. Rachel Nelson and her husband Joseph Trobaugh are spearheading the renovation, which aims to preserve the church’s historic character while creating a welcoming living space. The property, previously known as St. Luke’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, had stood vacant for 15 years before being revitalized. Their plans include four bedrooms, a three-car garage, and a roof deck, with construction expected to be completed in 12-18 months.

Transforming a Church into a Family Dream Home!

In an inspiring twist of fate, a once-abandoned church in Detroit is getting a new lease on life. Located at the intersection of Seminole Street and Kercheval Avenue, this remarkable building was previously known as the home of St. Luke’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, founded way back in 1949. After standing vacant for a staggering 15 years, it’s finally being revitalized into a stylish family home, and the journey is nothing short of exciting!

A Church Left Behind

The church had a long period of abandonment, slipping into neglect since its closure in 2009. The desire to revive its spirit prompted the listing of the property in May 2022 at a price of $429,900. Despite the intriguing potential of turning the site into a community center or a daycare, its fate lingered in limbo without any takers.

A New Vision Emerges

Along came Rachel Nelson, a visionary who heads an interior design firm named Concetti. Initially envisioning the space as an office, she soon pivoted her dream to transform the church into a personal haven for her family. Rachel and her husband, Joseph Trobaugh, have long had their hearts set on living in the charming Indian Village neighborhood.

For the couple, the vast 4,000-square-foot property felt like a blank canvas, bursting with potential to become a warm and inviting home. Rachel enlisted the help of Erica Collica, an associate broker, and their collaboration began at a networking dinner in March. The duo wasted no time in setting a plan in motion!

Turning Dreams into Reality

In June, Rachel effectively pitched her grand transformation plans to the Detroit Land Bank Authority and the Historic District Commission. Her proposal showcased a sincere commitment to preserving the church’s historic integrity while enhancing its features. The envisioned transformation will include four bedrooms, three and a half bathrooms, and an expansive living area, alongside a clever plan to repurpose the choir balcony into a welcoming space.

Additionally, Rachel and Joseph intend to convert an area with a flat roof into a three-car garage topped with a fabulous roof deck – perfect for enjoying those beautiful Detroit sunsets! Their efforts paid off when they successfully acquired the property on August 27 for $390,600 from the Land Bank.

The Road Ahead

As the plans are set, Rachel and Joseph anticipate the renovation process will unfold over the next 12-18 months with an estimated budget of around $600,000. To achieve their imaginative vision, they’ve partnered with the talented local firm 4545 Architecture and the skilled contractor Milton Roberts Co.. Rachel’s team at Concetti will be at the helm of the design process, ensuring every detail reflects their vision.

Community Excitement

The community is buzzing with excitement over this project, signaling a promising change as the couple breathes new life into a property that has stood dormant for far too long. With local support behind them, this restoration effort is not just about creating a home, but it’s also a heartfelt commitment to enhancing the neighborhood’s character.

As they embark on this creative journey, Rachel feels a deep sense of responsibility to restore the church, enriching its presence in the Indian Village community once again. Not only will it serve as a beautiful family home, but it’ll also hold onto the memories of its past, marking a new chapter of life for everyone involved.

So, keep an eye on this remarkable transformation as it progresses, and celebrate the rebirth of a cherished part of Detroit’s history into a loving home for the future!