Transforming a Haunted Victorian Mansion into a Maximalist Wonderland
In the quiet city of Cadillac, Michigan, a fascinating real estate transformation is unfolding. A century-old Victorian mansion was purchased by Michelle Carder and Michael Ochs for $95,000. Over a period of years and with an investment of about $250,000, the couple has turned the once-dated Victorian property into a maximalist dreamscape, filled with vibrant colors, distinct artistic touches, and echoes of a time from the past. This creative renovation venture truly reflects the endless possibilities housed within the realm of real estate, architectural design, and interior design. Visit the home’s website here. For more of our design ideas, you can visit here.
Victorian Grandeur Meets Modern Maximalism
Inspired by the grandeur and history of the Victorian era, Carder embarked upon a major renovation project. The house, a four-bedroom, three-bathroom property was a bargain at $95,000. The money that had been acquired from the sale of their earlier home in California was mainly invested into renovating this particular property. Their focus was not just on structural renovations in areas like the kitchen and attic, but it extended to purchasing unique art pieces and furniture that breathed life and color into the home. This journey of transforming a humble Victorian home into a vibrant living space resonated with over 126,000 Instagram followers who closely followed the renovation.
The Evolution of Carder’s Maximalist Design
Carder did not always adhere to the maximalist design aesthetic. However, the very architecture and history of Victorian homes, known for a rich mix of patterns, colors and eclectic curiosities, seemed to call forth for such a design approach. Carder decorated her home with unique and whimsical finds from Facebook Marketplace and local antique shops. She employed her evolving skills as a muralist by designing and painting various sections of the home, most notably the attic’s ceiling inspired by flora and fauna themes.
An Unexpected Element: The Ghosts in the Attic
Diving deeper into the mystique that surrounds this house, Carder shared that there may be a resident ghost—or more—in the attic. This has, however, not affected her resolve in redesigning her home and dealing with the supernatural presence by maintaining a safe distance.
The Transformation of the Parlor Organ into a Bar
The evolution of an antique parlor organ into a fully functioning wet bar is one such testament to Carder’s eclectic style and design approach. The parlor organ was purchased in 2021 for $800 and then repurposed, which cost an additional $200. This interesting piece of furniture has an equally fascinating history, having washed ashore a farmland in the 1920s from a riverboat.
The Ambitious Maximalist Kitchen Remodel and Future Plans
Among the most significant projects Carder and Ochs undertook was the kitchen remodel. The room’s original wood floors were the only elements that remained untouched, contrasting nicely with the fresh coat of harlequin-pattern paint applied. The couple plans to spend an additional $50,000 on future renovations, which include improving the exterior of the home and enhancing its landscaping.
In Summary
- A once-dated Victorian home in Cadillac, Michigan, purchased for $95,000, has been transformed into a maximalist wonderland
- The transformation phase resonated with over 126,000 Instagram followers, showcasing the powerful nexus between social media and real estate
- Much of the renovation cost was dedicated to procuring distinctive art pieces and furniture items that speak volumes about the homeowner’s taste and style approach
- The home’s kitchen and attic underwent significant structural renovations
- Some unexpected elements include the presence of resident ghosts
- Unique design solutions, such as transforming an antique parlor organ into a fully functioning wet bar, encapsulate Carder’s eclectic design style
- Anticipation for future redesign projects, including an enhancement of the home’s exterior and landscaping.
