Theodore’s cheerful nursery is decorated with family heirlooms.
dumbbell found in the yard adds a touch of humor to the builtin brick planter that wraps around the front porch. Lenora and Andy’s bedroom set was built by her great-grandfather. Back issues of “Muscle Power” magazine and old Pam Am brochures, left behind by the original owner, hang in the home office and entry hall. Above the enamel-topped table that kickstarted Lenora’s collection is a framed photo of her mother and uncle dining at the very same table.
OUTSIDE When it came to the remodel, the biggest and least-expected challenge cropped up outside: The Hartleys discovered an unsalvageable concrete patio in their backyard, hidden under years of weeds. In the end, Andy busted up almost 14 tons of concrete, then tilled and leveled the yard, brought in topsoil and sod and finally built a wooden deck where the original patio stood. Today it’s the picture-perfect place to spend an afternoon while enjoying a Bomb Pop and watching the planes take off and land. With a lovingly restored home and warm, welcoming neighbors, it’s easy to pretend you have stepped back into a more modest time. Lenora and her son, Theodore, install the backyard deck. 30 house& home | June 2017 | www.houstonhouseandhome.net