When Danielle and her husband Nick sent the listing for their beautifully restored Church Hill home, we couldn’t resist visiting in person and sharing the details. They bought the house in rough condition in 2003 and worked with the Better Housing Coalition to make it livable. The property dates back to at least 1855, though records are unclear about whether it was rebuilt after 1865. Either way, it’s an old house that required extensive work when they purchased it.
After two years of renovation, they moved in in 2005 and have cherished their first home ever since. Now that their boys are older, the family is relocating to Bon Air for the schools, but this lovingly revived Church Hill house will always be special to them. Below is a tour of Danielle’s thoughtfully designed home.
The stately foyer features a classic light fixture and elegant transom windows above the double front door, creating an impressive first impression.
Danielle found the large mirror on clearance and repaired a missing mirrored disk herself. Paired with a showstopping green cabinet she picked up at a local thrift store, painted and glazed for depth, the entryway becomes an inviting focal point that feels personal and creative.
The living room uses cheerful yellow accents to brighten the space. A sale side table and dramatic floor-to-ceiling curtain panels bring polish and personality to the room.
The kitchen has a Parisian feel with granite counters that resemble marble, ornate wooden brackets under the counter lip, classic subway tile backsplash, and easy-to-clean metal stools. The design balances charm and practicality for a busy family.
That kitchen rug is actually two runners from Ballard Designs joined with rug tape to create a larger custom mat—an easy, clever solution that looks seamless.
They also installed a deep double sink with a vintage-style faucet, combining beauty and functionality for everyday use.
A wider kitchen view shows a giant bulletin board Danielle made to display her sons’ artwork and an industrial pendant light above the sink that adds character and task lighting.
The playroom, just off the kitchen, features wall-to-wall seagrass carpet topped with a patterned Ikea rug. White Ikea bookshelves keep toys, books, and magazines tidy while maintaining an open, airy feel.
A grid of vintage airplane prints hangs in the playroom as a meaningful tribute: Danielle’s late grandfather was a Navy pilot, and her husband surprised her with the watercolor set. The arrangement is both personal and visually striking.
Upstairs there are three bedrooms and two bathrooms, along with a friendly family dog who might greet you during a visit.
Along a diagonal wall Danielle created a small vignette with a cabinet and a collection of framed keepsakes—an ultrasound photo, inked baby footprints, wedding photos and children’s portraits. The bold black accents and white frames create drama while integrating functional elements like the thermostat into the composition.
The hall bathroom features floor-to-ceiling subway tile that cleverly conceals previous wall issues uncovered during renovation. The tile continues behind the mirror for an unusual and polished look, and a non-working fireplace mantel adds charming architectural interest.
Nick and Danielle’s bedroom feels warm and welcoming with breezy gray-blue curtains and a printed headboard found on sale, complemented by patterned slipcovers and bedside lamps that lend a collected, lived-in style.
Their older son’s bedroom includes a nailhead denim headboard and a bright orange patterned rug that injects playful color. A planet mobile and Greek-key curtains add fun, graphic touches appropriate for a child’s room.
A long Ikea dresser provides ample storage while a driftwood-style lamp on top adds texture and charm. A tiny owl ornament tucked into the lamp base by Danielle’s mom adds a personal, whimsical detail.
The guest bedroom corner features bold green curtains, scroll artwork, and a compact desk, creating a comfortable spot for visitors that still feels thoughtfully designed.
That wraps up the tour of Nick and Danielle’s lovely Church Hill home. Their thoughtful design choices, creative DIY solutions, and meaningful personal touches make this house a memorable and welcoming family home.
Now it’s your turn: what’s your favorite detail? The airplane prints in the playroom, the pair of runners taped into a custom kitchen rug, the pops of yellow in the living room, or something else entirely?