Step into the world of Katrina and Mike Morrissey, a couple who embarked on a remarkable journey to restore their historic Chicago bungalow. With unwavering dedication and a deep appreciation for the home's rich history, they have lovingly revived its original charm. Join us as we delve into their labor of love and the recognition they have earned for their remarkable restoration work.
Embracing the History: A Dream Come True
Discover the couple's love for Chicago-style bungalows and their journey to find the perfect home.
When Katrina and Mike Morrissey began their search for a home, they knew they wanted something special. They were drawn to the rich history and working-class charm of Chicago-style bungalows. Their dream came true when they found their perfect match in an Austin bungalow.
With great excitement, they embarked on a journey to restore the home to its former glory, preserving its original character and paying homage to its past. Little did they know that this labor of love would become a true passion project.
A DIY Restoration: Unleashing Hidden Potential
Witness the couple's determination to learn new skills and transform their bungalow through DIY restoration.
Despite limited experience, Mike and Katrina took on the challenge of restoring their bungalow themselves. Mike, a teacher by day, quickly became a skilled carpenter, while Katrina, an occupational therapist, embraced tasks such as painting and styling.
They scoured the internet for resources, learning how to strip paint, restore windows, and even build their own kitchen cabinets. Their dedication and teamwork brought the bungalow back to life, one project at a time.
Through their DIY restoration, they not only saved money but also discovered a newfound passion for craftsmanship. Their determination to unleash the hidden potential of their home is truly inspiring.
Preserving the Past: Honoring Original Details
Explore the couple's commitment to preserving the historical integrity of their bungalow.
As they delved deeper into their restoration journey, Mike and Katrina realized the importance of honoring the original details of their bungalow. They uncovered hidden treasures, such as original subway tiles buried beneath layers of newer ones.
With great care, they restored the tile, bringing it back to its former glory and preserving the historical style of the home. They also salvaged vintage materials, like a large sink with a drainboard and an older door with a transom window, to maintain the authentic feel of the kitchen.
By preserving these original details, they not only honored the past but also created a unique and charming space that tells the story of their bungalow's rich history.
Recognition and Inspiration: The Driehaus Award
Learn about the couple's well-deserved recognition for their exceptional restoration work.
Their dedication and passion for restoring their bungalow did not go unnoticed. The Chicago Bungalow Association awarded Katrina and Mike with the prestigious Driehaus Award, recognizing their outstanding kitchen makeover and their commitment to preserving the iconic style of Chicago bungalows.
Through this recognition, they have become an inspiration for other bungalow owners, showing that with determination and a love for history, it is possible to restore these architectural gems and create homes that are both beautiful and functional.