Then & Now, The Story

A careful revival of history, done with heart and purpose.

What began as a timeworn structure has become a thoughtfully restored retreat—brought back to life one beam, board, and brick at a time. This renovation was more than cosmetic; it was a labor of love rooted in preservation, storytelling, and the desire to share Augusta’s heritage in a tangible way.

What we found when we began.

When we first stepped inside the John Buerger Home, the space was in serious need of care. Time had taken its toll—peeling paint, sagging floors, outdated plumbing, and forgotten materials filled the rooms. But beneath the dust and disrepair, the character and history of the original structure still shone through.

Honoring the original craftsmanship.

Throughout the renovation process, we made it a priority to preserve the home’s historic details whenever possible. Exposed brickwork, hand-laid wood flooring, original tin features, and vintage woodwork were carefully cleaned, reinforced, and restored. Where modern updates were needed, we blended them seamlessly with period-appropriate finishes.

Bringing it back—without erasing its soul.

Our goal wasn’t to make the house look brand new—it was to make it whole again. We updated the structure with new systems (electric, HVAC, plumbing), but retained the spirit of the space through color choices, lighting, materials, and furniture that complement the home’s original character. Every change was made with intention.

The result: A modern retreat with a timeless feel.

Today, the John Buerger Home welcomes guests with warmth, elegance, and deep historical character. Whether it’s the restored front porch, the inviting kitchen, or the soft lighting reflecting off aged brick, the space now tells a complete story—one of survival, stewardship, and Southern charm.

During the renovation, we discovered historic photographs, an original business card, and other personal artifacts hidden behind walls and tucked in floorboards—reminders that history lives in even the smallest details.

Watch the full transformation—from forgotten to unforgettable.

Sometimes, words and photos just aren’t enough. That’s why we’ve created a short film that captures the full renovation journey of the Historic John Buerger Home—from the first walkthrough to the final touches.

In just a few minutes, you’ll see the dramatic before-and-after changes, the hands-on restoration work, and the small discoveries that made this project so meaningful. Whether you're a history enthusiast, restoration lover, or future guest, this video brings you behind the scenes of a home revived with heart.

This video, made by the Augusta Kentucky Historic District, shows the renovation journey of Mr. Buerger's house from beginning to end. It illustrates how the property went from neglect to a key example of the importance of preserving history.   We look forward to sharing his home and his story with you and your family.