When we first set eyes on the 1928 farmhouse that will become Bel Cavallo’s centerpiece, we knew it was more than just a structure. This house has a story, one that stretches back centuries to its origins as part of an 18th-century coal barge operation. The beams beneath its floors and the bricks in its walls carry the weight of history, and we feel a deep responsibility to honor that legacy while making it our own.

A House with Stories to Tell

The farmhouse stands on land that was once part of a larger 100-acre property, originally owned by a coal barge operator in the mid-1700s. The original home, constructed from the timbers of decommissioned coal barges, was lost to fire, but many of its materials were salvaged and used in the construction of the current house in 1928. Walking through its halls, we can already feel the echoes of its past—a tangible connection to the lives lived and dreams pursued on this land.

Planning a Modern Farmhouse Vision

As much as we want to preserve the character of the home, we also need it to function for our family and farm. Our renovation plans begin with a simple goal: to breathe new life into the house while respecting its history. From the 100-year-old wood floors, crafted from 500-year-old trees, to the original bricks that have survived both time and fire, every detail will be approached with care and reverence.

The first step will be restoring the floors. With the help of a skilled craftsman who shares our appreciation for the home’s history, we hope to uncover the beauty of the original materials. Seeing the rich patterns of the wood reemerge will feel like rediscovering a lost treasure.

Honoring the Past While Building the Future

Our renovation isn’t just about preserving history; it’s about creating a space that embodies the heart of Bel Cavallo. The farmhouse will become a home, a gathering place, and a symbol of the farm’s connection to the past and commitment to the future. From planning a modern kitchen that balances utility with charm to designing spaces that reflect the beauty of the surrounding farmland, every decision is guided by our love for this house and what it represents.

We’re also keeping small but meaningful details that tie us to the property’s history, like an ornament passed down from the original owners and a book documenting the home’s past that we’re eagerly awaiting. These items remind us that we’re not just renovating a building; we’re continuing a story.

Why It Matters

For us, this renovation is more than a project—it’s a reflection of our journey. Just as we’re building Bel Cavallo from the ground up, we’re preparing to restore this farmhouse to create a foundation for future generations. It’s a labor of love, one that intertwines our dream for the farm with the heritage of this remarkable home.

As we stand on the brink of this transformation, we’re reminded daily of the balance between honoring what came before and creating something new. Breathing new life into this farmhouse is our way of bridging the past with the future, crafting a space where history and dreams coexist. And in doing so, we hope to ensure that the story of this house—and the farm it stands on—continues for years to come.