In the spring of 2009, I purchased a large, rundown five-plex converted old house located in the Hawley Historic District. Over the course of 13 years, I lived in and restored the house to resemble its former state as a single-family home. During this time, I became part of our little neighborhood, affectionately known as the Hawley Hamlet. The people in this neighborhood became like family to me, and I had the opportunity to meet many unique travelers from all over the world by hosting an Airbnb. I shared countless meals and held many parties with my neighbors and friends, making this home a truly rewarding labor of love that will always hold many fond memories. The house however had became more space then I really needed and I began to think about a smaller, more modern and simple living space.
Some of us in the neighborhood would regularly walk downtown or to the Hub and Soul Music Festival down at Union Plaza. After a few summers and repeated walks past the same little house on the corner lot overlooking the area, I just knew it was going to be the perfect location for me! It was only 5 blocks away from my existing home, so I wouldn't lose the community that I had grown fond of.
So, every time I passed by, this particular little house caught my eye and stayed in my thoughts. I was really drawn to the stunning views of the park and its ideal location. I couldn't stop dreaming of living there one day and enjoying those amazing sunsets. Eventually, I was able to purchase the house but then I faced the problem of not having enough space or a garage. I had hoped that there would be space with the original house but soon a new design began to emerge.