A Diamond in the Rough

by Miki Fluker

As a historic neighborhood, North Highlands is filled with many beautiful homes. Some have been meticulously maintained for generations; others have been lovingly restored. And then some are, what you might call, “diamonds in the rough.” The 1923 Craftsman Cottage at 823 Boulevard certainly fit this description when the current owner purchased it after searching for an affordable home that needed a little TLC.

The property consisted of a main house, cottage, brick utility building and a storage building. To prepare for occupancy by the owner’s mother, the first 10 months were lovingly devoted to a complete renovation of the cottage.

As the years went by, the buildings got new roofs; new HVAC systems were installed in the main house and cottage and new decks were constructed for both. And finally, a fresh coat of paint all around gave new life to this old Boulevard “diamond in the rough.” What was once considered a folly by some is now the proud owner’s dream home!