Newly renovated and restored to its former glory, the Lazarus House stands as a testament to the resilience of both the historic building and its current owners, Abigail McLean and Mark Sweeney. Originally built in 1886, the house has undergone several transformations over the years, but none quite as remarkable as its most recent renovation.
When Abigail and Mark purchased the house in 2020, they were well aware of its historical significance and were determined to honor its legacy. Teaming up with Sullivan Builders and Midland Architecture, the couple embarked on a journey to bring out the hidden potential of the house while preserving its authenticity.
Their plans to convert the upper floors into a single-family home were put on hold when Abigail was diagnosed with cancer. Adjusting their priorities, they created a separate living space on the top floor for Abigail to comfortably undergo treatment while Mark and their children resided in the downstairs apartment.
Abigail’s vision for the restoration was meticulous. With a keen eye for detail, she meticulously sourced furnishings and antiquities that were tailor-made for the house. Mark, meanwhile, coordinated with designers, builders, and interior decorators to ensure that every aspect of the renovation was executed flawlessly.
Throughout the process, the couple collaborated with Columbus Landmarks, the Downtown Commission, and Columbus’ Historic Resource Commission to ensure that the historical integrity of the Lazarus House was carefully preserved. They also enlisted the help of skilled tradespeople and local artists who shared their passion for restoration.
Going beyond their personal endeavor, Abigail has made it her mission to promote and share information about the professionals involved, as well as the local talent who contributed to the project. By doing so, she hopes to inspire others to undertake unique restoration projects and support the preservation of historic homes.
For Abigail and Mark, this restoration is not only a labor of love for their family but also a tribute to the City of Columbus. They view themselves as stewards of the Lazarus House, committed to protecting its legacy and ensuring that it remains a source of pride for the city.
In the end, this remarkable restoration project serves as a reminder of the power of resilience, the beauty of historical preservation, and the profound impact that a well-preserved historic home can have on not only its occupants but also the community at large.
FAQs:
Q: Why did Abigail and Mark decide to purchase the Lazarus House?
A: Abigail and Mark were drawn to the historical character and potential of the house, as well as its inlaid floors, tall ceilings, and original radius windows.
Q: Did they encounter any challenges during the renovation?
A: Yes, their original plans had to be adjusted when Abigail was diagnosed with cancer. However, they persevered and made accommodations to create a comfortable living space for her during her treatment.
Q: What steps did they take to preserve the historical integrity of the house?
A: Abigail and Mark worked closely with organizations such as Columbus Landmarks, the Downtown Commission, and Columbus’ Historic Resource Commission to ensure that the restoration honored the historical significance of the Lazarus House.
Q: How did Abigail and Mark contribute to the restoration?
A: Abigail meticulously sourced furnishings and antiquities that were tailored to fit the house, while Mark coordinated with designers, builders, and interior decorators to ensure the successful execution of the renovation.
Q: What is Abigail’s mission regarding the restoration?
A: Abigail aims to promote and share information about the professionals and local talent involved in the project, in order to inspire others to undertake similar restoration endeavors and support the preservation of historic homes.