Mina, Karen and the Little Victorian That Could

With the last episode of Good Bones we brought you the “Big House on Sanders Street” – physically the biggest project that Mina and Karen had yet taken on. This time around we take you to the other end of the spectrum with one of their smallest projects, but one that nevertheless comes with its own set of challenges.

In this Good Bones project, our fearless duo goes back to Woodlawn Avenue, coming to the rescue of a Victorian era home that’s in need of some serious love. At only 1780 square feet, the two-bedroom, one-bath home truly is one of the smallest properties Karen and Mina have taken on.  

In terms of repairs, peeling paint and a sagging roof are just the tip of the iceberg. Over time the house had been morphed into a severely dysfunctional layout — with a front door that opened into a bedroom (!) and only a single and non-functional bathroom, off the kitchen at the rear of the house. Adding to the challenge, the building was still filled with piles of trash left by former tenants.

Karen and Mina remained firm in their conviction that, despite its current sad state, the house did still possess some period charm. A two-story addition and $160,000 later, give or take, what Karen and Mina are able to deliver is a salvaged gem that now comes with an impressive sense of space, a grand kitchen and living area, four bedrooms and some luxe amenities.

Following their distinctive aesthetic approach, they fill the spaces with art and furnishings that provide an urban boho vibe and lots of color and visual interest that are certain to capture the imaginations of prospective downtown homebuyers.

The Good Bones episode titled “Facelift for a Tiny Victorian” premieres Tuesday, July 18 at 10p|9c. And check back here to see the full photo tour, more new galleries, show updates and more.