This Charming 98-Year-Old Bungalow’s Bold Green Fireplace Absolutely Stuns
ABOUT THIS TOUR
HOME TYPE: Bungalow
LOCATION: Milwaukee, Wisconsin
STYLE: Mid-Century Modern, Modern, Scandinavian
BEDROOMS: 3
SQUARE FEET: 1300
When landscape architect Maudie Francek; her husband, Ronnie; and their English bulldog, Helga, moved into their 1928 three-bedroom house in Milwaukee, they were tasked with restoring the bungalow to its original glory while adding modern touches.
“Our home had great bones before we moved in, but it needed a little TLC and elbow grease,” Maudie explains. “Many original features from 1928 still remained, but they were often covered up and begging to be revealed. For example, many of the original doors and windows had been painted over, multiple times, and we’ve been bringing them back one room at a time.”
Although the couple had the desire and drive to restore their home, they’d never undertaken a full home renovation. However, Maudie was inspired by her mom’s reminder of the phrase, “Where there’s a will, there’s a way,” and immediately jumped into renovating the home room by room. (It’s safe to say YouTube videos came to the rescue during the process.)
This home is the couple’s first in Wisconsin. They originally came to the city as renters for Ronnie’s job, but fell in love with it. Their house is a labor of love, but original details, including its corner location and south-facing windows, add a special charm. The abundant natural light from the windows likely helps the plants, which Maudie says “play a central role” in their space.
“We both have a strong appreciation for craft, nature, and timeless design. Our love for the outdoors is reflected in our home through organic materials and natural textures,” Maudie shares. “At the same time, we’d describe ourselves as fairly practical. We focus on creating spaces that feel lived‑in, functional, and unfussy with comfortable places that are easy to enjoy every day.”
Resources
Related: House Tour: Tour a 225-Square-Foot Dark but Cozy Brooklyn Apartment
PAINTS & COLORS
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Walls — Sherwin-Williams Snowbound
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Fireplace — Sherwin-Williams Andiron
LIVING ROOM
DINING ROOM
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Light Fixture — West Elm
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Flowers — Trader Joe’s
BEDROOM
Thanks, Maudie!
This tour’s responses and photos were edited for length/size and clarity.
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Further Reading
Before and After: Black and White Paint Covers Up a Wood Paneling Kitchen
10 of the Best Folding Shopping Carts for an Easier Grocery Haul
My Mom’s 5-Step Cleaning Routine is Thorough, But it Keeps My Kitchen Spotless Every Day
