In a 1912 house buzzing with new life, a devoted homeowner poured heart into restoring its original doors, crafting a safe haven for their baby’s nursery. Shared with the r/centuryhomes community, captivating fans with its perfect blend of history and safety. When the couple moved in, sloppy white paint smothered the trim, doors, and hardware, hiding lead beneath layers of latex. Choosing the nursery for a full strip-down, the homeowner ensured a toddler could explore worry-free—even if they turned into a little beaver chewing on the trim.
Stripping Away Danger
The doors, caked in paint, demanded careful work. Testing confirmed lead, making the nursery the top priority for a complete strip. Using safe methods, the homeowner peeled back layers, cleaned, primed, and stained the wood, revealing the 1912 craftsmanship underneath. The rest of the house’s trim got a fresh coat of white, but in the nursery, every inch was left lead-free.
Rehanging History with Care
Once stained and rehung, the doors transformed the room, their rich wood tones stealing the spotlight. While missing hexagon doorknobs and faceplate screws remain on the hunt list, the restoration already shines. Next steps include rehanging wall sconces, swapping the airplane chandelier for a ceiling fan, refinishing the floors, and installing new windows this summer.
A Room That Sparks Joy
Every glance at the doors fills the homeowner with pride—they can’t stop staring, pulled in by their restored beauty. The community showered love, with comments like “Those doors are perfection!” and “Such a cozy nursery vibe!” This milestone, part of a larger house-wide overhaul, inspires others too.
The nursery, now a glowing sanctuary, proves that even small details can breathe life into old walls.
A Future Rooted in the Past
For this homeowner, the nursery doors mark more than a renovation—they mark a promise to preserve, protect, and pass down history. A mix of safety, care, and style, the project urges r/centuryhomes fans to restore with heart.
As the house blooms, it reminds everyone that even something as simple as a door can cradle a new generation’s dreams.