The Money Pit

We recently purchased this 1905 house in Sierra Madre that has been stripped down to its studs for renovation and left in dilapidated condition for several years. It was nearly demolished, with plans and permits for a new house on the lot, but that project was halted and the property was later put back on the market.  

Although the house has been altered too much over the years to attempt any authentic restoration, we hope to refurbish it, staying true to the character of the house while improving it and using as much green technology for energy and water conservation as is practical and affordable.  

The river rock used in the fence across the front of the property is a signature of Sierra Madre and can be seen in the stone walls, fences and chimneys all over the city. We will preserve the stone fence, but the stone supports on the front porch were added later and were not part of the original house. The foundation is composed of the same river rock and though it needed reinforcing, it is in remarkable condition.  

We would like to share some of our experience with this project as we go, possibly helping others by our mistakes or successes. A question many of us have about new energy technologies is how affordable are they and do they really deliver enough to make them worth while? What other simple passive methods can be used in construction design to help with cooling and heating? Some of these questions have been answered and incorporated already, with landscaping and window placement. We would love to have any feedback and suggestions on any topic relating to our renovation and we hope to help in return.  

Later, some stories about the house and its history. It has been neglected for many years and has been somewhat of a menace to the neighborhood. Please let us know of any stories you might have about this house or the neighborhood!