In the small town of Newbury, an extraordinary journey of restoration is unfolding at a historical residence that has been in the Duran family for nearly two centuries. Sommer Duran, a 29-year-old homeowner, and her husband Antonio, 27, have embarked on a significant renovation of their family’s house, which was originally built in 1834 by one of Sommer’s ancestors. Their efforts not only aim to preserve the property but also to reconnect with the family’s rich history.
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During the renovation process, the couple has made remarkable discoveries within the walls of their home. While they anticipated unearthing old fixtures and wear from years of use, they were taken by surprise to find cherished family heirlooms and documents dating back several generations. Among the treasures retrieved are original family photographs, vintage orchard baskets, and a wooden bassinet that once cradled Sommer’s great-great-grandfather.
Sommer expressed her heartfelt enthusiasm for the renovation, stating, “Every room seems to tell another part of our family’s story.” The couple, who purchased the home mortgage-free after a lengthy search, feel a deep connection to the family legacy that permeates the very walls of the house. This profound sense of history adds an extra layer of significance to their restoration efforts.
What began as a renovation project has steadily evolved into a virtual chronicle of Sommer’s family heritage. She has been documenting their progress on TikTok, initially intending to keep distant relatives and friends updated on their DIY journey. However, the audience quickly grew, captivated by the unfolding history they discovered along the way. “I wanted to create something my children could look back on and see how much work and love went into restoring their family home,” Sommer remarked.
The couple’s findings range from everyday items offering a glimpse into the past, such as preserved canned food items, to significant artefacts that have left Sommer astounded. “We’ve also found historical documents and an original published illustration of the house from the 1800s,” she said. Each of these discoveries fuels their desire to retain the home’s original characteristics rather than simply replacing them.
Sommer and Antonio are devoted to restoring authentic features whenever possible. When it comes to items like doors, trim, or flooring, they prefer to invest time and effort into preservation rather than opting for modern replacements. “We always try to restore before we replace,” Sommer explained, highlighting their commitment to upholding the family home’s integrity.
Despite their emphasis on preservation, some updates are necessary to ensure the home remains functional for future generations. Modern plumbing and electrical systems must be incorporated, but Sommer views these changes as an opportunity to balance innovation with history. “Our goal is to keep as much of the home’s original character as possible while making sure it can continue to be lived in and loved for generations to come,” she said.
One of the most cherished features that Sommer and her family encounter daily is the original double folding doors in one of the upstairs bedrooms. She articulates a special connection to these doors, noting, “They’ve survived nearly 200 years, and I love thinking that my ancestors walked through those same doors long before I did. Now I get to watch my own children run through them.”
As the renovation progresses, the couple envisions a home that is both a sanctuary and a testament to their family’s legacy. Sommer hopes that anyone who enters will feel the warmth and caring that has gone into maintaining the essence of the house. “I hope people walk through the front door and feel like they’re stepping into a home that’s been loved and cared for, not one that’s been stripped of its history,” she commented.
Ultimately, for Sommer Duran, preserving this historic home transcends mere construction; it represents a bridge to ancestors she never had the privilege to meet. She hopes that within the walls of their family home, laughter, love, and memories will endure for another 200 years to come. The Duran family’s journey encapsulates not only a restoration of a building but also a heartfelt connection to their lineage, ensuring that the story of their family continues to be written, room by room.