Renovation Husbands: Blending History, Style, and Partnership in Home Restoration
Experience how attention to detail and creativity revive aged homes for modern comfort.
Renovation Husbands: A Passion for History and Home
Stephen and David St. Russell, known as the Renovation Husbands, embarked on an ambitious journey in 2017 when they purchased an 1893 Queen Anne Victorian in Dorchester, Boston. What made their story unique was the state of their future home: previously gutted, stripped of nearly all finishes, and in dire need of a complete restoration. The house featured only remnants of its original features and was essentially a blank canvas. Through determination, a love for old homes, and a commitment to DIY, the couple set out to preserve its historical spirit while making it livable and uniquely theirs.
The Spark Behind the Project
The couple had already renovated several houses together before finding the Victorian that would change their lives. The immediate connection they felt to the property was rooted in its history and potential—despite its daunting condition, both saw beauty and challenge in its bones. The home, dating back to the late 19th century, offered traces of its previous grandeur, like wood paneling and stained glass, which inspired their restoration vision.
Embracing the Challenges of a Historic Gut Renovation
When Stephen and David first walked into their new home, they confronted an unconventional situation for homebuyers; the property had:
- No electrical wiring
- No plumbing or insulation
- Absence of most original trim and finishes apart from a few salvaged elements
Yet for the couple, this was an opportunity as much as a challenge. They saw the freedom to honor the late Victorian era details while introducing modern comforts and their signature style.
Preserving History: What to Restore, What to Reimagine
One of the first and most important questions they faced was how to balance preservation with modernization.
- Historical character: They made meticulous decisions to restore details like moldings, door frames, and period-appropriate hardware wherever possible—even recreating some from scratch or scavenging salvage shops for authentic pieces.
- Modern needs: The home’s absence of basic amenities enabled them to install high-efficiency systems, insulation, and flexible spaces—transforming it into a house fit for today’s lifestyle.
This dual approach allowed them to celebrate the craftsmanship of the original while optimizing for comfort, function, and sustainability.
Melding Styles: Two Personalities, One Home
One of the defining challenges of their work was harmonizing their tastes. As a same-sex married couple working closely together on every aspect of design and construction, they brought individual preferences to the table. Their approach included:
- Open communication—discussing every decision from paint colors to layout changes
- Blending aesthetics—finding compromise between Stephen’s affinity for vintage touches and David’s eye for simplicity and clean lines
- Curating finishes, textiles, and furnishings that reflected both personalities
This process resulted in a distinctive interior that felt both historical and deeply personal.
DIY Spirit: Learning by Doing, Building with Heart
The Renovation Husbands’ journey is powered by a dedication to DIY renovation. With Stephen’s background in architecture and David’s hands-on problem-solving skills, they learned—and taught themselves—a range of trades as they worked.
- From installing electrical systems and plumbing to plaster repair and millwork replication, they invested time in mastering new crafts.
- They often turned to online tutorials, trade books, and expert neighbors for support and advice.
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Rather than outsourcing each step, this approach allowed them to control quality and infuse their own touch into every detail—while saving on costs and strengthening their partnership.
The Role of Social Media and the DIY Community
Stephen and David documented their progress on their blog and through platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Their honesty about setbacks and triumphs, paired with visually appealing before-and-after shots, garnered them a passionate following. Highlights include:
- Sharing real-time updates and challenges to demystify the DIY process
- Building a community of historic home lovers offering advice, encouragement, and shared experience
- Using positive feedback as motivation to keep striving for excellence in each project phase
This digital record preserves their journey and inspires others to consider hands-on restoration for their own homes.
Design Details: The Art of the Perfect Beige
One story recounted by the couple highlights their commitment to detail: the quest for the perfect beige paint. Recognizing that color would set the tone for the home’s entire mood, they:
- Tested dozens of paints in varying lights
- Factored in the effect sunlight, shade, and the home’s history had on hue perception
- Eventually landed on a shade that complemented both original features and new decor
This anecdote underscores how small decisions can have outsized impacts in renovation, especially when working in spaces with strong architectural character.
Biggest Lessons Learned
Asked about the most important lessons gained over years of restoring their home, the Renovation Husbands share sage insights for anyone considering a similar undertaking:
| Lesson | Description |
|---|---|
| Embrace flexibility | Expect surprises, especially in old homes. Stay open to pivoting plans based on what’s revealed during demo or construction. |
| Value patience | Renovation takes time, especially with DIY. Rushing may sacrifice quality and joy. |
| Recognize limits | Don’t be afraid to consult or hire professionals for complex jobs (like electrical or structural overhaul). |
| Document everything | Keep detailed records, photos, and notes. These help with planning, inspiring others, and preserving the renovation story. |
| Find joy in process | Celebrate small wins. Each repaired window or finished room is a milestone worth marking. |
The couple’s transparency about what’s hard—and what’s rewarding—makes their story both aspirational and accessible.
Balancing Partnership and Renos
Renovation, especially on this scale, tests more than skills or taste; it tests a relationship. Stephen and David talk candidly about:
- Dividing responsibilities based on strengths but supporting each other throughout
- Setting clear goals and respecting boundaries to avoid project burnout
- Celebrating laughter and teamwork whenever possible to stay connected during stressful phases
The result? Their partnership emerges as the “foundation” upon which the restoration stands, inspiring couples tackling their own projects to prioritize patience and empathy.
Preservation and Modernization: Walking the Line
Working within a historic home, especially one of local significance, brings additional responsibilities. The Renovation Husbands:
- Consulted local preservation guidelines to ensure compliance when restoring exterior facades or features visible from the street
- Engaged with historic home communities for resources and camaraderie
- Balanced the integrity of historic elements with 21st-century amenities—thoughtfully introducing climate control, modern kitchens, and lighting in a way that complements original craftsmanship
This process required research and creative problem-solving but resulted in a home that is both a testament to its time and to the current owners’ vision.
The Renovation Husbands’ Advice for Future Restorers
- Start with clear priorities: Know what matters most—preserving woodwork, energy upgrades, or adding open space—and focus resources accordingly.
- Break the process into manageable phases to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Rely on a network: Connect with neighbors, preservationists, and DIY forums.
- Expect imperfection: Old houses seldom allow for a straight path or flawless finish.
- Above all: Enjoy the process, not just the outcome.
Spotlight: The Transformation
After years of effort, the 1893 Victorian has been reborn:
- Restored details: Leaded glass, oak paneling, and ornate trim sit side-by-side with high-efficiency appliances, smart lighting, and purpose-built nooks.
- Outdoor revival: The backyard was transformed into an entertaining oasis, reflecting the couple’s gardening and hosting passions.
- Spaces to live and create: Sunlit breakfast nooks, a cozy library, and inviting bedrooms echo the house’s layered history and its new life as a home filled with joy and purpose.
Their work is recognized by local preservation groups and followed by thousands online, showing the enduring appeal of marrying history with innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How did Stephen and David decide what to preserve in their historic home?
A: They researched period-appropriate details, assessed structural integrity, and prioritized elements that defined the house’s original charm, such as paneling and stained glass.
Q: What are the biggest challenges when tackling a down-to-the-studs renovation?
A: Unpredictable structural and mechanical issues, need for extensive systems upgrades, and the emotional toll of living in a construction zone are key challenges. Flexibility and resilience are essential.
Q: Did they use professionals or do everything themselves?
A: While the Renovation Husbands handled much of the work DIY, they hired specialists for jobs requiring licenses or deep expertise, such as major electrical or asbestos abatement.
Q: How did sharing their renovation on social media help?
A: Documenting the process fostered a community of support, offered accountability, and inspired others to take on their own restoration projects, while demystifying DIY for a wide audience.
Q: What advice do they give couples taking on large projects?
A: Communicate honestly, divide and conquer but always regroup, and remember the project is a shared adventure. Celebrate small wins together and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Conclusion: Celebrating Craft, Partnership, and Home
The Renovation Husbands exemplify a blend of historical respect, creativity, and partnership. Their Dorchester Victorian stands as both a restored architectural gem and a symbol of what can happen when two people—guided by vision, grit, and affection—commit to bringing an old home back to life. Their journey inspires others to see the beauty in what once was and to embrace the adventure of making it new again.
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